The agent of Southampton star Jay Rodriguez has revealed that the forward is in a positive mood, despite suffering a huge injury blow before the World Cup.

The 24-year-old's hopes of being included in England's squad to Brazil this summer were dashed when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during the Saints' 4-1 defeat to Manchester City last Saturday.

Despite being handed a six-month layoff, Rodriguez's agent Gary Mellor has insisted that the forward is full of determination.

"He is in excellent spirits considering the circumstances and is determined to come back stronger for club and country," Mellor told the Southern Daily Echo. "He is overwhelmed by all the messages of support he has received from fellow professionals and fans."

Southampton are currently eighth in the Premier League table.