Saints depleted for Reading trip

Alex Pearce and Jason Euell have both ruled out of Southampton's squad for the trip to face Reading on Saturday.

Pearce is ineligible to play against his parent club while Euell begins a three-match ban following his red card against Wolves last week.

Michael Svensson is set to return from injury to start after proving his fitness in the reserves this week and could make his first start since September.

Midfielder Romain Gasmi is close to making his Saints debut after another reserve appearance following his broken foot, while Anthony Pulis (foot) was also involved in midweek but is well short of match fitness.

Defender Wayne Thomas and winger Lee Holmes (both knee) remain on the sidelines.