Southampton: Pellegrino confirms team news for Brighton clash

In his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s mid-week clash with Brighton, Southampton boss Mauricio Pellegrino has given an injury update.

Ryan Bertrand, who came off after 40 minutes in the win over Watford on Saturday, could yet pass fit despite initial concerns from supporters that he could have suffered a hamstring injury.

The left-back has had more than one injury setback this campaign but before so was ever-present for just over a dozen league games – his influence down the left-flank and his leadership all over would make him a huge loss if he isn’t passed fit.

Meanwhile, Guido Carrillo – who made a brief cameo appearance against the Hornets – could also get the nod, with Pellegrino revealing that a slight knock was what prevented him from getting more minutes in the 1-0 win.

"“Ryan was taken off during the game the other day but he is much better today. He will try and get ready tomorrow and we will see what condition he is in. “Guido came off the bench for us on Saturday and maybe is not yet at 100 per cent. Like Ryan, we will have another look at him tomorrow.” – Pellegrino"

Carrillo joined the Saints for a club-record fee believed to be within the region of £19.2 million, and his aerial presence could be useful in giving the Saints another dimension against the Seagulls this week.

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The score was 1-1 the last time the two teams met, with Glenn Murray cancelling out a Steven Davis opener. Since then the Saints have slipped into the relegation zone, but four games unbeaten in all competitions could mean an upturn in form is on the horizon.

And the positives don’t stop there, with Southampton boss Pellegrino revealing that Charlie Austin has returned to training ahead of his comeback from injury.

"“Charlie Austin is back on the pitch training, something that is really good news for us.”"

The English forward has been missing since just before Christmas, having scored five goals in seven games since finally getting the nod as first-choice striker against Everton back at the tail end of November.