SAINTS manager Ruben Selles’s cryptic response regarding Armel Bella-Kotchap’s absence has left much open to interpretation.

The young German defender was not selected as part of the matchday squad for Thursday’s 1-0 home defeat to AFC Bournemouth.

Bella-Kotchap, 21, had played 90 minutes in each of the last three games in a row and was striking a partnership with Jan Bednarek in defence.

However, when he was not named in the squad at St Mary’s it was assumed Bella-Kotchap was rendered unavailable – but Selles’s explanation was unclear.

Asked if the summer signing will be available to travel to Newcastle United on Sunday, Selles responded: “Armel will be fit for Sunday.”

However, when probed on what the reason for his absence against the Cherries was, he simply said: “He was not ready to perform today.”

Bella-Kotchap had missed eight league games prior to this one through shoulder and knee injuries – while he also played through pain to be available this year.

Saints are facing relegation from the Premier League with just five matches to play and six points separating them from safety.

Bella-Kotchap is among the players expected to have interest elsewhere should the club be relegated and he could leave just 12 months after signing.