Southampton have suffered an injury blow Thursday with the revelation that star midfielder Mario Lemina has sustained an injury whilst on international duty with Gabon.
A Sport Witness report translated the claims of a Gabonese outlet, which state that Lemina suffered a muscle injury during training.
Gabon are preparing to play Mali in an all-important Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, and head coach Daniel Cousin has stated that Lemina will not be included.
Quoted by the report, Cousin said:
I honestly cannot count on players who are not 100%, it is difficult. I need those that are in good shape,
I cannot trust him [Lemina], because Saturday’s game will be physically demanding.
So there is no question of taking risks, Mario is going to look after himself quietly. I do not know if he will attend the game for the spirit of the group or will he return to his club. The most important thing is that he takes care of himself.
The 25-year-old has made 13 appearances in all competitions so far this season for Southampton, and is an integral part of Mark Hughes’ midfield.
Southampton will travel to play Fulham next Saturday, a trip that could be made without Mario Lemina.
