Manager Claude Puel admits he may have to rest key players and even turn to the club's academy as Southampton begin a hectic period of fixtures against Burnley on Sunday.
The Clarets will be the first of seven opponents in 22 days for Southampton, who may also have an eye on Thursday's mouthwatering Europa League clash against Inter Milan at the San Siro.
Saints then play Manchester City and Chelsea either side of an EFL Cup tie against Sunderland, before the reverse fixture against Inter and a tricky trip to Hull.
Puel will be without four first-team players this weekend as both full-backs, Cedric and Ryan Bertrand, are out with ankle and hamstring injuries respectively, along with Jeremy Pied and Sofiane Boufal, who are nursing knee problems.
Claude Puel to maximise his Southampton squad ahead of busy period
