Saints have been dealt a major blow ahead of Sunday's final day clash with Sheffield United with the news they will be without centre half Chris Lucketti.
The 36-year-old defender has taken the decision that he doesn't want to be selected to face his parent club in a game which could see Saints relegated or the Blades reach the play-offs.
Saints boss Nigel Pearson confirmed the club have tried to resolve the situation but without success and now plan for the match without him.
"It was a difficult situation and we've tried very hard to resolve it.
"We're not in a position to make him a permanent deal at this moment in time which is a shame and that would have been the best solution and one that we all wanted.
"It's a difficult situation at this moment in time."
