Adam Webster made his first start for more than two months, while Brighton also recalled forwards Leandro Trossard and Neal Maupay for the clash.
Albion have not won at home since Boxing Day, a run of seven matches, failing to score in the last five of those fixtures.
Pascal Gross and Solly March dropped to the bench, while Tariq Lamptey was absent from Graham Potter’s squad.
The former Chelsea man - who has worked his way back this season from a serious hamstring injury - missed out due to a “minor” knee injury.
Southampton opted for six changes, including handing forward Shane Long a first league start since December.
Tino Livramento, Mohammed Salisu, Nathan Redmond, Nathan Tella and Che Adams also returned.
Brighton made a blistering start and were ahead inside 76 seconds.
Saints goalkeeper Fraser Forster failed to deal with Marc Cucurella’s low cross from the left and Danny Welbeck was on hand to poke into the empty net.
Southampton almost levelled when Livramento’s deflected effort struck the left post, with Adams narrowly unable to convert the rebound.
Brighton then had an effort disallowed for offside after Maupay headed home following a corner.
Southampton full-back Livramento was stretchered off in the 36th minute.
The England Under-21 international, who was sidelined by a knee injury earlier this season, stayed down after twisting awkwardly as he attempted to challenge Enock Mwepu and was replaced by Romain Perraud.
Check out the latest Premier League transfer speculation below...

5. Wigan eye Bray
Wigan Athletic are readying an offer for Leeds United midfielder Owen Bray. (Football Insider) | Getty Images

6. Molumby deal ‘done’
A permanent deal to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Jayson Molumby is “done” West Bromwich Albion manager Steve Bruce has confirmed. (Various) | Getty Images

7. Badiashile in demand
Newcastle United are set to ‘battle’ Manchester United for Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile this summer. (Foot Mercato) | AFP via Getty Images

8. Leeds watch Hubers
Leeds United have ‘stepped up’ their interest in Timo Hubers, and sent scouts to watch the FC Koln defender on Saturday. (Football Insider) | Getty Images


