'Saints gamble Mubama needs to step up'

Could Manchester City striker Divin Mubama’s loan spell at Southampton be just what he needs to make the step up to being a true first-team player?

The 21-year-old was ever-present in Stoke City’s matchday squad last season, but a serious leg injury in January meant he made only one further Championship appearance for the club.

He will be hoping to play a bigger role during his time at St Mary’s and BBC Radio Solent’s Adam Blackmore feels it could be reminiscent of recently departed Saints midfielder Shea Charles’ time at Sheffield Wednesday.

Charles, who also came up through City’s academy, played 44 games for the Owls during his breakthrough season on loan from the Saints.

“This season for Mubama needs to be that season for Shea Charles,” Blackmore said.

“It needs to be the time that he grows up, steps up, handles men’s football. If he gets it right, he’s got bags of talent, so I think it’s a good gamble from Saints.”

Listen to the full analysis below or on BBC Sounds here.

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