Saints have been dealt a major blow to their survival chances with Simon Gillett ruled out for the rest of the season.

The midfielder has been on top form of late and looked set to play a vital role in the final seven games of the Championship.

But he has torn the cartilage in his right knee in a training ground accident and the operation he requires means he will sit out the rest of the campaign.

Saints head coach Mark Wotte said: “It’s a big blow because Simon has been one of our key players over the last six weeks and so this comes as very bad news.

“It was very unlucky for him because we had had a good training week and he just turned awkwardly.

“It is just one of those unfortunate training ground injuries where no one is to blame.

“We have Paul Wotton and Morgan Schneiderlin who can fill in, though, so it’s not all bad.

“I am positive that either of those players can come back in and do as well as Simon has done."

For full story and more Saints news, don't miss today's Daily Echo.