MARIAN Pahars is having to face up to the news that will miss the FA Cup final - even as a spectator.

The Latvian hotshot was always going to be unable to play because of an ankle injury, but now - according to Saints' website - he will not even be able to go to the game against Arsenal.

He is booked in for a third operation on the problem and will have surgery in Bristol on Wednesday.

Although he should be discharged by Friday, he will need to rest it and will be advised not to travel to Cardiff.

The club are still awaiting for the exact recovery schedule, but they are confident he should be back fully fit in time for pre-season.