Southampton issue positive Walker-Peters injury update

It will mean the 26 year old misses Championship minutes for the first time this season after coming off early at Liverpool.

Walker-Peters, who was subbed on himself in the second half, came off less than 20 minutes later in the 3-0 defeat.

However, manager Russell Martin insists it has been a positive update on Walker-Peters - he will not be out for an extended spell. 

Martin said: "He won't be very long out, tomorrow will be a stretch I think.

Saints manager Russell Martin speaks ahead of Birmingham

"But it was really good news with Kyle. He will hopefully be involved in one of the two after that or both. 

"If not, he will definitely be back after the break so it was fairly positive news."

After Saints take on Birmingham on Saturday, they welcome Preston North End and Sunderland to St Mary's next week.

Ryan Lowe's Preston visit on Wednesday while Sunderland will make their trip to the south coast on Saturday.

As a result of Leicester City's FA Cup progression, Saints will go into an extended international break following the Sunderland game.

Championship action resumes on Friday, March 29, with the visit of Middlesbrough - meaning Saints have three successive home matches. 

James Bree will likely fill in for Walker-Peters this weekend, with Martin adding: "I thought he was excellent.

"I really enjoyed his performance especially because he has been out for quite some time. 

To do that at Anfield on his first game back was brilliant. I am delighted with all of them really.

"The only disappointing thing was the result because I felt even better about the performance after watching it back."