The season is only two weeks old and the Magpies are already heading for a crisis after losing to West Ham and Aston Villa before exiting the Carabao Cup to Burnley.
Some positive pre-match news is Allan Saint-Maximin is expected to be in contention despite hurting his foot in midweek.
Bruce said: “He had a kick on the top of his foot. It looks a little bit sore, but we expect him to be OK.”
Meanwhile, Paul Dummett is also back around the squad. Isaac Hayden, however, is touch and go.
"We’ve got the same problem with the goalkeepers," Bruce all-but confirmed Freddie Woodman will remain in goal.
“But we’ve got Dummett in and around it, touch and go for Isaac Hayden.
“He trained a bit yesterday, but considering he was out for a good period of time last year with a knee injury, we’ll have another look at him today.
"Everybody else seems to be OK.”
Which players will get the nod? Here, we predict the NUFC starting XI Bruce will name against the Saints:
9. CM: Miguel Almiron
Played just eight minutes in midweek before missing his effort in the shootout. Or, could Bruce opt for an improving Jeff Hendrick? Photo: Ian MacNicol
10. ST: Allan Saint-Maximin
Bruce confirmed ASM is set to shrug off a sore foot sustained against Burnley to line-up against Southampton. Photo: George Wood
11. ST: Callum Wilson
Rested for the cup exit. You can almost guarantee United’s number nine will return against the Saints to lead the line, and hopefully his side to victory. Photo: George Wood