Southampton manager Nigel Adkins has claimed that midfielder Gaston Ramirez is showing "good signs" of recovery but believes that the Uruguayan will remain sidelined for a lengthy period of time.
The 21-year-old was ruled out for six weeks after picking up a thigh problem ahead of the international break.
"If the time is from the medical department, it is from the date of original injury," said Adkins. "He is showing good signs of recovery at this moment of time, but he won't be fit for the weekend."
The Saints go up against West Ham United at Upton Park this weekend.