Southampton striker Jay Rodriguez has suffered a fresh setback in his injury recovery.

Rodriguez has been sidelined since he picked up anterior cruciate ligament damage in Saints' defeat at Manchester City in April.

Saints boss Ronald Koeman said yesterday: "Jay had to make a step back in his recovery. He will not be available until after the end of January.

"That was a pity because when we spoke about the squad in pre-season we said Jay would be a good signing for December, January but he isn't.

"After a big injury you don't have to rush. He needs time and he will give him time. It is a pity because he is a good player. This is the kind of bad luck we are having.

"He is now making steps forward but I don't like to fix a date because that puts pressure on the player and medical staff."