RALPH Hasenhuttl confirmed Danny Ings is set to be sidelined for three weeks after picking up a muscle problem against Sheffield United.

It means he will miss Wednesday’s clash at Manchester City, while also being ruled out of Saints’ FA Cup quarter-final battle at Cherries on Saturday, March 20.

Hasenhuttl said: “I think it is a serious one but not too serious.

“I think three weeks. I expect him to be back after the international break.”

The England striker was forced off after just 13 minutes of Saturday’s 2-0 victory at Bramall Lane.

He was replaced by Che Adams, who fired home Saints’ second goal after James Ward-Prowse’s converted penalty.

Frontman Ings has already seen his campaign disrupted after a knee problem earlier this season, as well as having to self-isolate after testing positive for COVID-19.

Asked how the striker was feeling after his setbacks, Hasenhuttl said: “Yes a little bit too much but what can we do?

“We must in the next season have a better pre-season hopefully to avoid this situation we have been in this season.

“We must make a few other changes I think, because it is more than we can take.

“But as it is we have to take it and do the best.”

Hasenhuttl's side are set to face up to a Manchester City outfit who had won 21 games in a row before losing 2-0 at home to Manchester United on Sunday. 

We must have a look in general at what players are available for Wednesday," added the Austrian boss. 

"We have two sessions - today and tomorrow - to have a look at how fit the guys are.

"We have a few players coming back from injury that means we have to be more careful with them, and find the best possible teams with the least risks."