SAINTS' injury worries have lengthened with the news that FA Cup Final skipper Chris Marsden could face surgery on a knee injury.

The fears were reported in the later editions of yesterday's Daily Echo and, if proved right, would mean the 34-year-old missing the start of the season on August 16.

Agustin Delgado is already definitely out for the opening Premiership match against Leicester, while goalkeeper Antti Niemi, defender Paul Williams and striker Marian Pahars will also be struggling for match fitness.

Saints ended their pre-season tour of Sweden on a low note last night, losing 2-1 against Halmstads BK.

Goals from Robert Andersson and Sharbel Touma put Halmstads 2-0 ahead before Jo Tessem pulled one back in the 86th minute last night.

David Prutton was substituted at the request of the referee in the 36th minute after being involved in a fracas with Mattias Thylander.

Real Sociedad target Javier De Pedro, meanwhile, appears set to stay in Spain after Saints failed to agree a deal with the La Liga side for the 30-year-old Spanish World Cup star.