Cedric Soares will be fit to face Bournemouth, with Claude Puel anticipating a high octane clash in his first derby game as Saints boss.

Saints travel to the Cherries on Sunday boosted by the return of Cedric, while goalkeeper Alex McCarthy is back in training.

The only players missing through injury are Matt Targett, who has undergone surgery on his hamstring and faces four months on the sidelines, and Charlie Austin, who is due to see a specialist before going under the knife after injuring his shoulder.

Also out is Oriol Romeu, who serves a one game after collecting his fifth booking of the season at Stoke.

For Puel, a first chance to taste the atmosphere of a match between Saints and Bournemouth is something to savour.

“I know the rivalry between two clubs. I saw this of course with many games in France, and the same I think in England,” said the Saints boss.

“It’s a good equality between two good clubs with a good philosophy on the play.

“For our supporters, our fans, of course it’s important to get a good result against “Bournemouth. I know this but for and the players it’s important to keep a good concentration about our team.

“I think we will see a good game because the two teams try to play on the ground with a good philosophy.

“I like the philosophy of this team with good work from this trainer, and I think the same for Southampton.

“All this can make a good game for Southampton.”