Southampton injury update: Danny Ings out, three others are fitness doubts for Newcastle

Southampton have looked in fine form of late and soared up the Premier League table to fifth following their 4-3 win at Aston Villa last weekend.

However, that thrilling victory came at a cost.

Danny Ings, Southampton’s main goal threat and the man who netted the winner on Sunday at Villa Park, picked up a knee injury with just minutes remaining in the game.

The England striker is a certainty to miss Newcastle United’s visit to St Mary’s on Friday night and could be out for up to six weeks after undergoing surgery this week.

That Villa game also saw defensive duo Jan Bednarek and Ryan Bertrand pick up injuries and they are listed as fitness doubts for the Newcastle game alongside new signing Ibrahima Diallo.

Speaking of new signings, centre half Mohammed Salisu has been ruled out of featuring on Friday by manager Ralph Hasenhuttl. Salisu, a signing from Real Valladolid in the summer, has yet to feature for the Saints.

Will Smallbone will join Salisu and Ings on the injury list as the trio have been ruled as certainties to not be included in Saints’ squad tonight.

Elsewhere, Jake Vokins, who was seen as a candidate to deputise for Bertrand if he doesn’t pass a late fitness test, also has a knock - a knee injury - and is unlikely to feature.