SAINTS manager Russell Martin hinted Kyle Walker-Peters is likely to return from injury against Sunderland on Saturday.
The St Mary's side host Preston North End on Wednesday evening in the penultimate Championship match before their international break.
Walker-Peters, who had played every league minute previously, missed Saturday's win at Birmingham after coming off injured at Liverpool.
Martin admitted the 26 year old is unlikely to feature against Preston as he spoke in his press conference ahead of the match.
He revealed: "Kyle was back on the grass today which is good news.
"Tomorrow may come a bit too early, it probably will but we are hopeful to have him involved on Saturday."
Fellow injury absentee Ryan Fraser has been ruled out of this week's two contests and is set for a return at the end of the month.
Saints were set to visit promotion rivals Leicester City on Friday, March 15, but the fixture will be rescheduled due to their FA Cup progression.
The Scottish winger could face Middlesbrough on Friday, March 29, having already missed games against Liverpool and Birmingham.
"With the Leicester game being delayed until later in the season, suits him because it means he will miss one game less," Martin admitted.
"We expect him or we are hopeful he will be back for the Middlesbrough game after that, all being well. If he’s not, it won’t be too long after that."
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