SAINTS' lack of "clinical edge" does not tempt Claude Puel in to rushing top-scorer Charlie Austin back to action at Middlesbrough tomorrow.

With three games left of the Premier League season, Puel has urged his side to find their killer touch in front of goal following a barren spell.

And, with nine-goal Austin now available after a five-month lay-off with a dislocated shoulder, there is a logic in bringing back one of Saints' best goal threats.

However, Puel will not be lured in to throwing the 27-year-old striker back into the thick of it - despite their scoring struggles.

Saints have not found the net in their last three outings and have scored a paltry 17 goals in 16 home outings.

Manolo Gabbiadini, who scored six in his first four games, has now not netted in six matches.

"We will see," said Puel, who has called for a "clinical edge" in front of goal, "Charlie has not played in five months and we will see for him.

"It’s difficult to come back after one hour with the under-23s.

"It’s not automatic that he comes back because a player needs rhythm and intensity.

"We will see before the end of the season if he can participate in the last three games.

"It’s always difficult to find a good physical fitness after five months out and it’s not easy."

Austin is now an option for Saints, who have no new injury problems ahead of tomorrow's trip to relegated Boro, and Puel is aware that, after two games already this week, keeping a fresh team is a priority.

"For the moment I don’t know[if Austin can play] because we need to look at the team’s recovery," he said. "We played two strong games this week and we will see if the players recover well or not.

"There’s a possibility for him to have game time."

Puel believes that Boro may well play with a certain amount of freedom, having already been consigned to Championship football next term.

Steve Agnew's side were sent down in a 3-0 defeat to top-flight leaders Chelsea on Monday night.

"We've got to play every three days and this is difficult," said Puel.

"For example, Middlesbrough have played one game this week.

"For us, the most important thing is to put in place a team with good balance and fitness, and to give a good answer.

"The second, it's a difficult game to prepare and we have to be ready.

"We saw last game after they were relegated and, for me, they can play without pressure and do good work.

"It's important to be ready and have a good concentration about this.

"It’s an important game for us, because if we can have a good result against Boro we can prepare the last two games at home with good intensity and the possibility of finishing in the first part of the table."