Injury blow for Southampton as Theo Walcott out for weeks

Southampton are set to miss the services of Theo Walcott for a number of weeks, according to the club’s manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.

The wide midfielder sustained an injury in the Saints’ clash against Aston Villa last month.

He was replaced by Che Adams in the 65th minute, in their 1 0 loss to the Claret and Blue.

The club announced the Everton loanee has sustained damage to his hamstring tendon and is set to be out for a lengthy time.

Theo, there is a tendon involved so it is quite long,” Hasenhuttl said. “We have a long injury with Walcott so we needed to do something in this position.

Liverpool loanee Takumi Minamino is likely to replace the England international but faces a challenge, according to the coach.

“Minamino is not allowed to play in the cup which is a pity but on Sunday he is back and he can hopefully play in good shape.”

Since his dream move to Anfield, Minamino has not found lots of game time under manager Jurgen Klopp.

The Saints completed deadline day transfer of the midfielder and the bargain could prove to be worthwhile.

With Walcott out injured, Minamino could be a key starter in place of the former Arsenal winger as he looks to impress in the Premier League.

Southampton’s coach also announced the good news of two major players returning to the squad.

“We have two players back and this gives me more options. Kyle Walker-Peters comes back and Mohammed Salisu is now able to play.”