MANAGER Ralph Hasenhuttl has given a positive injury update on defender Jack Stephens and Saints could see him return to action as early as this month.

Stephens started each of the first five Premier League games of the season but limped off during the first-half of the 0-0 draw with Manchester City at Etihad Stadium.

He had picked up a knee tendon injury that was first feared could keep him out from mid-September until the New Year.

At the time, Hasenhuttl said: “His tendon on the knee is disrupted. I don’t know how long, it could be 10 to 12 weeks, but it will take quite a serious time.”

Daily Echo: Jack Stephens was in top form for Saints before his injury (Pic: PA)Jack Stephens was in top form for Saints before his injury (Pic: PA)

In the seven weeks since then, Jan Bednarek has been tasked as his replacement while Mohammed Salisu’s stock has only grown, and Lyanco has made his Premier League debut with two appearances from the bench.

But it will be a welcome addition to have Stephens back early, with the Torpoint-born defender having already taken to individual grass sessions in his recovery.

Hasenhuttl revealed the positive news, saying: “The time is going past quick (since his injury), I must say I am surprised to hear now that it has been that long since he picked up his injury.

Daily Echo: Jan Bednarek has been restored as a starter in Jack Stephens' absence (Pic: Stuart Martin)Jan Bednarek has been restored as a starter in Jack Stephens' absence (Pic: Stuart Martin)

“But yes, he is in a good way I think. He has had a few individual sessions on the grass already so it is looking good.”

The boss added: “We have the international break now and then we will have a look but maybe he is back for us after then, we'll have a look at him.”

Following the break, Saints travel to Norwich on Saturday, November 20, before a trip to Anfield the next weekend.

Then, a hectic December schedule starts with fixtures against Leicester, Brighton, Arsenal and Crystal Palace in the next two weeks - with the ability for Hasenhuttl to rotate potentially proving key.