Ireland midfielder Will Smallbone a major injury doubt for September internationals
Southampton and Republic of Ireland midfielder Will Smallbone is set for an elongated spell on the sidelines.
23-year-old Smallbone limped off with an ankle issue in Southampton's 4-4 draw against Norwich, and it is now understood that the injury is more severe than first thought.
The news will come as a huge blow to Ireland manager Stephen Kenny as he plots the downfall of both France and the Netherlands, whom they face on September 7th and 10th respectively.
According to Mark Wyatt - a reporter covering Southampton for Hampshire Live - Saints manager Russell Martin has today confirmed that the injury is "worse than initially feared".
Russell Martin confirms Will Smallbone's injury is worse than initially feared #SaintsFC
Sportswriter Matt Smith originally broke the news on the social media site, X, noting the longevity of the recovery ahead of Smallbone.
"Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone's injury is looking worse than first feared.
"Expected to be out for months rather than weeks."
Smallbone had been linked with a move to Premier League outfit Sheffield United prior to picking up the ankle knock.
Saints boss Martin also told Hampshire Live that he has full faith in the ability of Smallbone's international teammate, Gavin Bazunu.
Goalkeeper Bazunu took some flak during his debut season in the Premier League, having conceded 56 times in 32 appearances for Southampton in 2023/23.
“We don't have a problem with the goalkeeper in my opinion," Martin said. "We have a full international who is 20 years old. He will take unbelievable learning from last season playing in the team that finished bottom of the Premier League.
"That's not easy for a goalkeeper and it's definitely not easy for a young goalkeeper. Alex
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