Southampton captain Adam Lallana is reportedly expected to make his comeback from a knee injury next month.
The 24-year-old has been sidelined since early December and Saints boss Nigel Adkins has so far refused to reveal the extent of the midfielder's injury and how long it will keep him out of action.
It is understood that Lallana has undertaken some light training but is unlikely to make a return to the pitch until February, according to the Daily Echo.
The former Championship outfit are preparing to take on Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday.