Jay Rodriguez could start for Saints before the end of the campaign – but Ronald Koeman’s main focus is on having the striker fully fit for next season.

Rodriguez made his first appearance since October as he came off the bench for the final six minutes as Saints defeated Newcastle at St Mary’s.

The 26-year-old was given a standing ovation from the crowd after battling back from his latest injury setback, a foot operation which was required just as he returned from his long standing knee problem.

With five games remaining this season, and Saints in good form, Rodriguez might struggle to start a game, but Koeman hasn’t ruled it out as he tries to build up his fitness.

The Saints boss said: “I don’t have doubts to start with Jay, but, ok, I think the players what started today did a good job and that’s the competition what we have.

“If you don’t start you have to wait for your opportunity to play or to come in from the bench, and if you start you have to show it.

“In my mind I have that we have to give Jay that kind of opportunities because that means really that he will be 100 per cent.”

The main thing for Koeman is ensuring that he doesn’t rush Rodriguez and end up with another setback, as he looks to next season and finally having the £7m man available throughout the campaign.

“Very positive,” said Koeman of Rodriguez’s return.

“It was amazing the reception for the player from the fans and to make the last step he needs game time and he’s still not 100 per cent.

“He needs time for that and he will get minutes to improve in all the aspects of a football player.

“Then for next season we will have a good sign with Jay and then he will really be 100 per cent and that’s good news for the club and the player and the team.”

Saints are in good attacking form at the moment, with Graziano Pelle making it four goals in his last four appearances.

The big striker’s all round play was equally as impressive as his clinical finish against Newcastle.

“That is really what we need to be strong, that he played out of his level,” Koeman reflected.

“It’s not that I mean it’s all about scoring goals, but also to be the target man in front, to keep the ball.

“He’s not a fast player but we have some other strikers who are very fast and he needs that play to give them that opportunity to score and have the movements and that was ok today.”