SAINTS boss Russell Martin admitted the next 24 hours will dictate whether Yukinari Sugawara is fit to start against Manchester City on Saturday.

Japan international Sugawara, 24, was forced off at the hour mark against Leicester City last weekend following a late tackle from Jamie Vardy.

He was withdrawn at 2-0 and Martin pointed to his early exit as a turning point - Saints collapsed in the second half to lose 3-2. 

The former AZ defender has started every game this season but could miss out on making the starting lineup at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Southampton's Yukinari Sugawara during the Premier League match between Southampton and Leicester City at St Mary's Stadium. (Image: Stuart Martin) Saints will be without Ireland international Will Smallbone, who suffered another hamstring injury on Saturday.

The Saints academy graduate tweaked his hamstring on his return from an injury that had kept him out for five games. 

Previewing their trip to Manchester City, Martin explained: "Yuki had to come off so we've managed him a little bit this week or having to manage him.

"I think another 24 hours will depend on if he's ready to start or not. We'll have to make a decision on that.

"Will Smallbone is out now for a little bit of time, which is really frustrating and disappointing for us."