Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl admits it has been tough to strike the right balance between training and protecting his squad's fitness during a hectic festive schedule.
Saints were held to a goalless draw at Fulham on Boxing Day - stretching their winless run to three matches - and host West Ham just three days later as they look to rediscover the form which saw them briefly top the table during a seven-game unbeaten run.
Despite being fortunate with injuries during the first part of the season, the problems have started to pile up for Hasenhuttl.