Florin Gardos is set to return to the Saints squad for the trip to Tottenham.

The centre half missed last weekend’s victory over QPR with a minor knock but has trained today.

However, he is likely to have to make do with a place on the bench with Jose Fonte and Toby Alderweireld set to continue in the heart of defence.

Maya Yoshida and James Ward-Prowse are the only players missing for Saints.

“Florin had a training session and of course we have to wait but if he is OK he will be part of the team for this Sunday,” said Koeman.

“Only Yoshida and Ward-Prowse we know.”

Saints have enjoyed a host of international call-ups over the last week but Koeman sympathised with managers who want to protect their players.

Saints are waiting to hear if Yoshida, who won’t be involved at White Hart Lane, may still be called up by Japan anyway for their upcoming international games.

“Sometimes it’s difficult because the national coach likes to have all his best players and sometimes the managers like to protect the players.

“Maybe in the case of Sturridge but maybe a little bit the same problem we have with Yoshida.

“He’s not fit for this weekend but the final decision is with the Japanese federation and the coach and if they say he has to come over then we have to accept that.

“You always try to have a good contact with the national coach because if there is any problem I prefer to talk to the coach but the final decision has to be with the national coach.”