Thierry Small is frustrated after his first season with Southampton.

The Daily Echo says the talented 17-year-old wants to cement a first-team role at St Mary's and will only consider a loan elsewhere as an option if it transpires he will not be involved, even after a pre-season under his belt.

Former Everton starlet Small is not expected to be short of potential takers for a temporary spell elsewhere but would be looking to stake a claim at a Championship or top-level League One side.

Small did not have a pre-season coming into this campaign with Saints, due to his situation at Goodison Park, and thus started behind on his match-fitness.

The youngster has had a positive first season at Saints when viewed through a normal lense, training with the first-team every week, starring at under-23 level and impressing coaches in training.