Southampton manager Claude Puel has revealed that striker Charlie Austin will be out for three to four months after picking up a shoulder injury.
Austin was left out the Saints' matchday squad for their win against Middlesbrough after suffering the injury during the Europa League defeat to Hapoel Be'er Sheva.
"I don't exactly know how long he will stay out, but I think normally he needs surgery," Puel told the club's official website. "That will mean he's out for between three and four months normally.
"It is difficult to play without Charlie, because he scores a lot of goals for us, but it's important now to look forward with all of the players."
Saints moved up to 10th in the Premier League after their 1-0 win against Boro.
