Graeme Murty has been ruled out of Southampton's home League One clash with Tranmere on Saturday and is expected to be out until the New Year.

The unfortunate defender has only recently returned to action after three months out with a knee injury, but he has now suffered ankle ligament damage and is expected to be missing until the New Year.

Midfielder Lloyd James will probably revert to right-back in Murty's absence, although centre-half Wayne Thomas could also fill in.

Saints are boosted by the return of Senegalese striker Papa Waigo, who missed last weekend's win at Walsall with a back injury.

Waigo will be on the bench with in-form duo Rickie Lambert and David Connolly starting in attack.

Bartosz Bialkowski continues in goal with club captain Kelvin Davis recovering from a groin injury.