SAINTS midfielder Flynn Downes has been forced to miss their away fixture at Wolves today due to a knee injury.

The 25 year old was named in Russell Martin's starting XI at Molineux but was unable to play through his injury after testing it during the warm-up.

Nigerian international Joe Aribo has come into the team to replace the former West Ham and Swansea City man.

Summer signing Nathan Wood travelled with the squad and has replaced Aribo on the bench. The England youth international could make his Premier League debut.

Dowens' injury follows positive news this week that veteran midfielder Adam Lallana, 36, was passed fit to face Gary O'Neil's side.

Defensive responsibilities are likely to fall on him in the midfield alongside Aribo and Mateus Fernandes.

Martin is expected to provide further details on Downes' injury following today's game.