SAINTS manager Russell Martin hopes midfielder Flynn Downes will be available for selection at Coventry City after missing the 1-1 draw with Watford through illness. 

Downes, 24, had started the last 12 Championship matches in succession before he was a surprise absentee from the team sheet at Vicarage Road.

Saints looked set to secure all three points thanks to a Che Adams winner before Martin's former MK Dons player Rhys Healey levelled in the 97th minute. 

Saints visit Coventry Building Society Arena on Wednesday, December 13, before Blackburn Rovers come to St Mary's on Saturday.  

Asked if Downes will be available for selection, Martin told the Daily Echo: "I hope so, he's been really rough - bless him.

"He felt unwell on Thursday but tried to come in on Friday because that's Flynn, but he was not well and got sent home.

"He tried to come up on his own in the car last night and did because he felt a bit better, but woke up today and felt terrible again.

"He is quite poorly but hopefully, he will recover very quickly. He was a big loss for us here, Watford are an athletic team. 

"His aggression, athleticism and quality would have definitely helped us - but someone missing out means another gets an opportunity."

Joe Aribo started his first fixture since the defeat to Ipswich Town in September, while Shea Charles anchored the midfield in the absence of Downes. 

Martin continued: "I thought Joe Aribo was really brilliant so I am pleased for him, and I thought Shea Charles was good as well.

"We hope Flynn will be back very soon and fingers crossed he is available for the next week."