Stewart is 'chomping at the bit' - Martin
Ross Stewart (right) has made only two appearances for Southampton this season but is expected to play a part in the Championship play-offs
- Published
Striker Ross Stewart "is chomping at the bit" to play his part against Leeds United on Saturday, according to Southampton manager Russell Martin.
The Saints travel to Elland Road for their final game of the Championship season with a play-off place secured.
Stewart signed from Sunderland on transfer deadline day last year but has only played 17 minutes this season.
"I want Ross to come on," Martin said. "He is chomping at the bit, now he has that opportunity he will get on the pitch all being well."
Stewart, 27, joined Southampton as he was recovering from an Achilles tendon issue and suffered a muscle injury in December.
The forward scored 40 goals in 80 appearances for the Black Cats and Martin will hope that he can find some form in the few opportunities that remain this season.
Southampton take on a Leeds team that must win and hope Ipswich Town lose if they are to achieve automatic promotion.
Martin's side have cemented a fourth-placed finish and will likely face either Norwich City or West Bromwich Albion over two legs in the play-off semi-finals, but they have faltered in recent weeks, losing their past three league matches.
"We owe it to the fans to play well. A lot of people are going up and paying a lot of money," Martin said.
"It will be brilliant preparation for us. We are getting ready for the two most important games of our season."
The first and second legs take place on Sunday, 12 May and Friday, 17 May.
The play-off final will take place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 26 May.