SAINTS' strike-force has received a boost with Marian Pahars having declared himself fit and the return from loan of Brett Ormerod.

Ormerod has been recalled to boost the survival battle after Saints enacted a clause in the deal that allows them to recall players with 24 hours' notice.

The decision follows Peter Crouch missing Sunday's derby humiliation with a bruised hamstring, although it is hoped he will return for Saturday's crunch match against Norwich.

Ormerod has scored twice in six appearances with Wigan and boss Paul Jewell said: "We are obviously gutted to be losing Brett at such a crucial period but I fully understand why Southampton have recalled him and I'd have done exactly the same in their situation.

"Brett goes with our best wishes and with great thanks for his efforts. I'd also like to put on record my thanks to Harry Redknapp for letting us have Brett in the first place."

Pahars, meanwhile, scored in Saints Reserves' 3-1 win over Derby, although he came off at half-time with a back problem.

The Latvian striker said: "The most important thing for me was that my ankle felt fantastic and I did not have any fears about that. I felt sharp, I went for tackles and I went for headers and that is how I injured my back.

"That was a bit unlucky again but hopefully it is not too bad and now I just want to play some part before the end of the season.

"Obviously that will be up to the manager but, if he came to me and asked me if I am ready to play, I would say yes.

"Maybe it would be a gamble for him because we are in a bad position and I have only trained for the last two months but from my point of view I want to play and I want to get something out of this season at least.

"Whether it is this Saturday or in the game against Palace or Manchester United I don't care -- as long as I am part of it again."

The Reserves play again today against Chelsea at Aldershot, kick-off is at noon.