SAINTS manager Ruben Selles explained James Ward-Prowse’s half-time substitution during the defeat to AFC Bournemouth as he was ill in the build-up to the match.

The 28 year old only played half of the biggest match of the campaign after a sore throat had affected his availability for over 24 hours before kick-off.

Captain Ward-Prowse, who faces an uncertain future at the club with relegation beckoning, could have entered his final five games as a Saints player.

The midfielder has racked up 404 appearances for the club in over a decade of service, scoring 53 goals and being accredited with over a half-century more in direct assists.

Asked to explain Ward-Prowse’s withdrawal, Selles said: “He got a sore throat. He went through training, went home and didn't have the best night.

“During the day he was recovering well and he wanted to play and he wanted to be there. But with the weather conditions that we had during the first half, it was too much for him.”

The Spaniard added: “He ran out of energy and then we needed to take him out.”

Saints have just days until their next Premier League fixture, with a visit to Newcastle United’s St James’ Park to come on Sunday, April 30.

Asked if he expects Ward-Prowse to be available for that, Selles responded: “I need to speak to the doctor. I think he will be okay but the doctor will need to look at him.”