BLACKBURN boss Tony Mowbray revealed Saints striker Michael Obafemi will not be heading to Ewood Park this summer.

Rovers had been linked with the 21-year-old following Adam Armstrong’s move to St Mary’s earlier this month.

But the Blackburn boss insists a deal never came close for the Republic of Ireland international.

"I think it's fallen off the radar, I would have to say," said Mowbray.

"He's never a player that we got to the point that I met him or spoke to him.

“It felt as though it was something that could create a balance but it probably didn't suit either party and it doesn't look to me as though that one will materialise."

Obafemi, who has also been linked to fellow south coast side Bournemouth was not included in Saints’ squad for the opening day 3-1 defeat at Everton.

Asked about the frontman’s future last week, Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “The latest with Obafemi is that he is our player and he is a young player with potential.

“So far, he has had a few good games in the Premier League but has never had a really consistent season.

“We have a lot of alternatives in his position and this does not make it any easier for him to play.”

He reiterated: “We need every player this season. If he stays he must fight hard for his position.

“We want him to be in and around the group but if we see that he is not in the race for starting then we will have to discuss what is the best thing for him.

“I don't want to make the mistake of letting players go. I don't want to let any players go if we think that we have got a use for them.”