Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has thrown down a challenge to his fringe players as they enter the Christmas schedule.

Defender Jannick Vestergaard is being assessed after suffering discomfort due to fluid on his knee while Nathan Redmond is a concern due to a muscle problem.

Stuart Armstrong has a hand injury after being stepped on in training though manager expects him to face Fulham.

Ibrahima Diallo is set to replace Oriol Romeu and make his first start while the other absences could open the door for another summer signing, Mohammed Salisu, plus academy products Nathan Tella and Dan N'Lundulu.

Hasenhuttl said: "They must show they are good enough for the Premier League. This is the moment they have been waiting for."