Date: 17th October 2016 at 3:56pm
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Claude Puel takes his Southampton side to the San Siro on Thursday for a tie against Italian giants, Inter Milan, in what will be one for the history books for Saints fans.

However, the Frenchman now faces a problem at left-back after second-choice Matt Targett, who was deputising for the injured Ryan Bertrand, limped off in the early stages of their 3-1 win over Burnley on Sunday.

Speaking after the win, the former Lyon boss said: “No, I think it is not possible [to be available for Inter] it was a hamstring so it is difficult so no.”

First choice full-back, Bertrand, also picked up a hamstring injury whilst on international duty with England leaving Puel without a senior left-back.

Targett was replaced at St. Mary’s by youngster Sam McQueen, a converted left-winger, on Sunday and Puel could roll the dice and give the 21-year-old a chance after an impressive Premier League debut.

“Sam can play a good game, he has a good left foot [he is] a good crosser,” said Puel after the game.

“It was a new place for him [in the side] but he can take confidence for the future and then you will see him at his best.”

Puel has a reputation for encouraging young talent, however, having given attacking midfielder Jake Hesketh a start in Israel against Harpoel Be’er Sheeva he replaced him with the more senior Dusan Tadic early in the first half.

 
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