Lambert missing for Saints
January 22, 2012 14:13:24 UK
Southampton will be without top scorer Ricky Lambert for Leicester's visit on Monday night.
The striker will serve the final match of his three game ban, meaning he will play no part against Nigel Pearson's Foxes.
Pearson enjoyed a brief, but relatively successful, stint as Saints boss in 2008, saving them from relegation to League One before being replaced by Dutchman Jan Poortvliet.
Current Saints boss Nigel Adkins expects Pearson to be given a warm reception by the home fans on Monday, as he returns to St Mary’s for the first time since his departure.
"Everyone will welcome him back and they should do because he is a good guy," said Adkins.
"I remember when he was Saints manager and he came up to Scunthorpe and he narrowly beat us when a refereeing decision went against us.
"I'm sure everyone will be looking forward to welcoming him back and we will be having a beer with him after the game - once we've got the three points in the bag."
Adkins could be without defender Jose Fonte, who is rated doubtful with a toe injury, while Spurs loan midfielder Yago Falque could be handed his Southampton debut. The Saints are 1.90 to take all three points as they continue to battle for the Championship title.
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Leicester City's Japanese midfielder Yuki Abe has returned to his homeland, while Andy King (Achilles) and Martyn Waghorn (hamstring) are both ruled out.
Pearson will also be without Sol Bamba and John Pantsil, who are on international duty at the African Nations Cup.
Leicester are 4.00 to seal the win, while the draw can be backed at 3.40.
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