WITH Saints scheduled to play their final 10 games in just 36 days the, importance of rotation will be more important than ever.

With so many games to be played in such little time, Russell Martin will need to rely on squad depth to ensure maximum output at the business end of a long campaign.

The need for changes will open opportunities for players to make a late claim for a starting berth as Saints gun for a return to the Premier League.

Here are some players we feel could benefit the most from Southampton's compact schedule...

James Bree

Full-back James Bree is yet to start a game since returning from the injury he suffered in Southampton's win at QPR just before Christmas.

His first appearance back came against Sunderland last time out when he was introduced from the bench with 17 minutes to go.

Capable of playing on the right and left, Bree's versatility will open up plenty of opportunities for him to get minutes when Martin looks to rotate the defence.

Ryan Manning's late call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad could also be a blessing for Bree as Southampton host Middlesbrough just after the international break.

Daily Echo: James Bree has made 11 league appearances this seasonJames Bree has made 11 league appearances this season (Image: PA)

Shea Charles

Considering this is only his first season as a full-time senior professional, Shea Charles can be happy with his involvement for Southampton.

The Northern Ireland international has played 1,664 minutes across all competitions since arriving from Manchester City's under-21s.

A busy schedule will present more chances for him to take to the field and continue his development at club level.

Experiencing the highs and lows of a tight promotion run-in will only aid his career in years to come - in turn helping Saints.

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Although he has shown plenty of bright spots, Kamaldeen Sulemana is still waiting to get going in a Southampton shirt.

The Ghanaian international arrived for a club-record fee last season, however, has provided just six goal contributions since then (two goals and four assists).

Southampton are well-stocked in the wide areas and the intensity required in that role will allow plenty of opportunities for players to make a mark from the bench.

Kamaldeen is still hunting for his first goal of this campaign. Russell Martin believes that once he gets his first, the goals will start flowing. Now is the perfect time for that to happen.

Joe Rothwell

Similarly to Charles, Joe Rothwell's minutes in midfield could benefit from the even more tightly compact Championship calendar.

The 29 year old has primarily served as Stuart Armstrong's understudy since joining on loan from AFC Bournemouth, but the Scot will not be able to start all 10 of Southampton's remaining games.

Rothwell has already shown he can produce game-changing moments when Saints really need them. That could make him one of Martin's go-to substitutes when required.