Claude Puel’s Southampton side are enduring a tough spell having lost all three of their festive fixtures and scoring just twice in the process.

The Frenchman has hinted that he is not essentially going to invest in his squad in the January window, however, many a Saints fan will – after their recent performances – be desperate to see some additions.

The change in atmosphere around the club over a short amount of time has been remarkable, and is a clear sign of the expectation that is now on the shoulders of Puel and his side after the achievements of his predecessors.

Having been dumped out of Europe at the start of November, with Charlie Austin confirmed to be out for months, the fans were almost at crisis point. Fast forward ten days and after a 3-1 win over Bournemouth, coupled with a Jay Rodriguez brace, the mood couldn’t have been more positive.

Now it seems the fanbase are back to the former, having lost three on the bounce with some fairly uninspiring football thrown in, there have even been some calls for Puel’s sacking, which would be ridiculous.

A couple of additions in January would certainly ease the pressure on the former Nice manager, for now, and one move would do so more than any other.

Manchester United midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin looks set for the exit door at Old Trafford, with both Everton and West Brom circling.

So, why not offer an olive branch and a move back to the club where the France international made his mark on English football?

Here are THREE reasons Claude Puel should make a move for his compatriot in the January window…

Familiar Surroundings

Schneiderlin secured a dream move for any footballer when he made the switch to Old Trafford after seven years at Southampton.

However, it has not worked out for the midfielder, especially since Jose Mourinho arrived in Manchester. A move back to the south coast may come across as admitting defeat, but it could do wonders for his form and could bring him back into the fold on an international level.

The Frenchman knows that he would be more than welcome back at St. Mary’s and would undoubtedly show his class once again.

Steady the midfield

It was yet another ‘Can they survive without xxxx player this season’ when Saints sold Victor Wanyama to Tottenham last summer.

However, Spanish midfielder Oriol Romeu has really stepped up and filled the void left by the Kenyan this term, despite the fact his form has dropped a little in recent weeks, but any player can be forgiven that.

Whilst the former Chelsea man has done well to fill the shoes of Wanyama, the rest of the midfield, whilst of a good standard, still seems to be missing something. There is a lack of consistency and creativity from Puel’s side of late and Schneiderlin could aide that.

Backing from the stands

As mentioned, there have been calls from some sections of the support for Puel to be given the axe.

Whilst these calls are rash, and quite frankly senseless, they will be concerning with some within St. Mary’s. A deal for a player who many fans still hold close to their heart would take a lot of pressure away from the Frenchman.