Until the summer transfer window is closed, Russell Martin will have to deal with the cards that he is dealt regarding incomings and outgoings.
That is the case with James Ward-Prowse, who is on his way to West Ham United, while Romeo Lavia has been left out of the opening two fixtures in all competitions.
Although the Saints impressed in edging out Sheffield Wednesday last week, their subsequent 3-1 drubbing at the hands of Gillingham highlighted that they require considerable better strength in depth to last the pace in the Championship.
Their solitary goal in that EFL Cup tie came when they had already been outhustled by their League Two opponents, but a return to St Mary’s could prove to be exactly what they need.
Supporters were not used to victories at their home ground during their Premier League relegation campaign, yet success on the South coast will be imperative if they want to challenge for an immediate return.
Norwich were in the same position as Southampton just 12 months ago, suffering relegation but being expected to cruise to a position in the top two of the second tier.
Instead, the Canaries finished in mid-table, representing a disastrous campaign, but there is optimism that David Wagner can spearhead a promotion push this time around.
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After an undefeated pre-season, Norwich battled their way to a 2-1 triumph over Hull City on the opening weekend, netting at the end of each half to secure victory over the Tigers.
With their EFL Cup tie at Queens Park Rangers not scheduled until next week, Wagner has had a week to prepare his team ahead of what is, on paper, one of their toughest fixtures on the calendar.
After an undefeated pre-season, Norwich battled their way to a 2-1 triumph over Hull City on the opening weekend, netting at the end of each half to secure victory over the Tigers.
With their EFL Cup tie at Queens Park Rangers not scheduled until next week, Wagner has had a week to prepare his team ahead of what is, on paper, one of their toughest fixtures on the calendar.
