Southampton's Fraser set for spell on sidelines with injury

The 30 year old was forced off during the first half of Saturday's 2-1 defeat against Millwall at St Mary's.

Fraser is not expected to return until after the international break, meaning he will miss Liverpool and at least four league fixtures. 

Saints visit Leicester City ahead of the March break and host Middlesbrough in the first fixture back, on Saturday, March 29. 

Martin explained: "He’s going to be out for a little bit of time, unfortunately.

Saints manager Russell Martin spoke to the press ahead of the FA Cup clash with Liverpool (Image: PA)

"It’s a bit of a blow for us, a big blow for him but we’ll have him back probably on the other side of the international break. Very soon after that hopefully, all well.

"I don’t think he has any desire to go back to Newcastle and get treatment. He wants to be a part of it here and be around the dressing room.

"That would be our preference. He is a really big character in the dressing room." 

The boss continued: "We lose something when he doesn’t play which is his relentless running ability.

"We miss his ability to cross on the move, his desire to go and score or assist, and work hard for the team.

"The other guys need to step up now. As always in football, there’s an opportunity for someone else when someone gets injured.

"I’m gutted for Wee Man because he’s been brilliant since he’s been here. His output data-wise will tell you that.

"You don’t need to have a look at that to see what he has brought. I think everyone has enjoyed having him, but he will play a big part for us in the run-in for sure.

"We just need to concentrate on getting him as fit as quickly as we possibly can." 

Saints visit Liverpool in the FA Cup fifth round on Wednesday, March 28 - with the possibility of extra time and penalties.