David Connolly will not be risked when Southampton travel to Tranmere in League One on Saturday despite his return from a groin injury.

The experienced striker has resumed full training after being sidelined since the turn of the year, but with Saints having cracked in 10 goals in their last two games manager Alan Pardew has no need to rush him back.

Pardew will have to do without winger Lee Holmes, who will be missing for around a fortnight with a groin problem.

Midfielder Lloyd James will also sit out as he is due to have an injection in the ankle problem which has kept him out for a month.

Veteran full-back Graham Murty is unlikely to figure again this season due to ankle ligament damage.