Southampton troubled by Gabbiadini injury

Southampton manager Claude Puel is hopeful the injury picked up by star striker Manolo Gabbiadini is nothing worth worrying about.

Gabbiadini was forced off the pitch during the first half of Saints’ 2-1 defeat away at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, struggling with what is reported to be a groin strain which will be assessed in the week.

“It’s an injury to his groin and we will see when it’s examined in the next few days," said Puel [H/T the OS]. "I think and I hope it is not bad, but for his national team I think it is not possible for him to play.

"We will see for us how many times he will stay out. It’s an important player for us with his quality and his clinical edge but now it’s an opportunity for another player to show us their quality.”

As alluded to by Puel, Gabbiadini's impressive form for Southampton helped dissipate any memories of his inability to get into the Napoli starting XI before his January move to the South Coast—his goals scored in four consecutive games for Saints earning him a call-up to the Italy national team.

However, he has now had to withdraw from the Azzurri as his injury is assessed.

Many Saints fans will be praying the injury isn't serious and we're no different. Here's to a speedy recovery!