Town will again be without strike trio Nicky Forster, Adam Proudlock and Sam Parkin when they take on Southampton at St Mary s on Saturday. New signing Alan Lee again looks likely to operate as a lone out-and-out attacker.
Town s hopes of retaining the FA Youth Cup won last May are over after the U18s lost 2-1 at Liverpool. The young Blues were unlucky to be defeated with Liverpool keeper Dave Roberts making a number of saves and Kieran Leabon having a late goal ruled out.
Town s U18s continue their defence of the FA Youth Cup tonight when they take on Liverpool at Anfield (KO 7pm). A fifth round trip to Burnley prior to Saturday, 4th February awaits the victors of the tie.
Boss Jim Magilton has denied speaking to Sheffield United about striker Steve Kabba. The 25-year-old frontman had been widely reported to be near the top of Magilton s January wish list.
Both Town s senior youth teams defeated Chelsea at Playford Road on Saturday morning. Ian Nimmo, back after a lengthy absence due to a broken leg, lashed in a last minute 20-yarder to give the U18s a 1-0 victory, while Jordan Rhodes, son of goalkeeper coach Andy, scored twice as the U16s won 2-0.