Ralph Hasenhuttl has provided an injury update on Southampton midfielder Stuart Armstrong... 

What's the latest?

The Saints manager has confirmed that the 29-year-old will not be available to face Wolves in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Scotland international is yet to make an appearance for the Saints this season and Hasenhuttl has not given a timeline on his return.

The Austrian told the Daily Echo: “Theo Walcott was back in training today for first time in a long time, and the rest yeah so far fit, Stuey (Armstrong) still unavailable and that’s it.

“Stuey has not been training with the group, and yes Theo was this week starting with the team sessions so it will take time until he’s on the level but it’s good to have him back, and important to give him training sessions with the team.”

Frustration

Southampton fans will surely be frustrated by Hasenhuttl's update on Armstrong. He has not explained how long the midfielder is set to be sidelined, which could also cause concern amongst supporters who are keen to see him back in action.

The 29-year-old has proven to be a reliable performer for Southampton on the wing in recent campaigns and his continued absence will frustrate fans who want to see him on the pitch. Hasenhuttl has not been able to give them a date for his potential return, with the only information being that he will be out against Wolves.

Last year, the Saints manager lauded the former Celtic man as hard-working and praised his ability to play his role in the 4-2-2-2 formation. 

The 54-year-old said: “In a 4-2-2-2 with two No10 positions, that chance was a bigger one. When we changed the shape, he was there at the right moment and showed up.

“From that moment on, he showed me he can be a No10 that is disciplined and is hard-working against the ball which is what I expect from him.

“It’s a very demanding position and you must be smart and disciplined for this position.”

This shows how highly Hasenhuttl rates the £48k-per-week beast and illustrates why his absence is such a blow for the Saints. Last season, Armstrong provided four goals and five assists in 32 Premier League starts, averaging a SofaScore rating of 6.76.

His ability to remain consistent whilst also chipping in with goals and assists, along with working hard in the number ten role, is why he is a big miss in the team at the moment. Southampton fans will surely be hoping that he is back in action sooner rather than later.

AND in other news, Hasenhuttl eyeing Southampton swoop for 20 y/o "special talent", fans will be buzzing...