United were beaten by Brighton at St. James’ Park last weekend but the Magpies boss has elected to keep faith with the team that started against the Seagulls, though fit-again frontman Salomón Rondón is among the substitutes at St Mary’s (3pm kick-off).

That means Martin Dúbravka continues in goal, with DeAndre Yedlin, Jamaal Lascelles, Federico Fernández and Paul Dummett in defence.

Jonjo Shelvey and Mo Diamé form a central midfield partnership, with Matt Ritchie and Kenedy on the flanks.

And Ayoze Pérez will provide support for Yoshinori Muto in attack.

On-loan forward Rondón is on the bench, along with Karl Darlow, Javier Manquillo and Fabian Schär.

Ki Sung-yueng, Christian Atsu and Joselu complete the list of substitutes available for Benítez to call upon on against Saints.

Newcastle United: Martin Dúbravka; DeAndre Yedlin, Jamaal Lascelles, Federico Fernández, Paul Dummett; Matt Ritchie, Jonjo Shelvey, Mo Diamé, Kenedy; Ayoze Pérez; Yoshinori Muto.

Substitutes: Karl Darlow, Javier Manquillo, Fabian Schär, Ki Sung-yueng, Christian Atsu, Joselu, Salomón Rondón.