Southampton injury update: Danny Ings, Ryan Bertrand and Mario Lemina could be back for Everton

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl revealed long-term absentee Ryan Bertrand could be set for a return from injury sooner than we thought.

In fact, the important injured trio of Bertrand, Danny Ings and Mario Lemina could all be set to come back from injury for Everton’s visit to St. Mary’s on Saturday.

However, Hasenhuttl confirmed Saints’ third round FA Cup replay against Derby County has come too soon for any of those players to feature.

Young striker Michael Obafemi remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.

”We have to find the right mixture. We will continue to try and give the young guys chances in the future,” the Hasenhuttl said [H/T the OS].

”Callum Slattery is an option, absolutely. We have to look at what shape we’re playing.

”We have three suspended players, who will miss Wednesday but will be available for the weekend.

”Injured players are coming back piece by piece. Bertrand is training with the team, Ings will hopefully return to training tomorrow and Lemina was in the group today.

”Obafemi will take a few weeks more to recover. His injury is more difficult.”

By the time Saturday comes, Southampton’s Danish midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg will also be available, having served his four-match suspension.

Good news all-round!