Amdy Faye could be fit for Pompey's first trip to St Mary's after all.

Senegal midfielder Faye was expected to be out until mid-December after suffering a knee injury in training ahead of the trip to Manchester United.

But the medial ligament damage is not as bad as was first feared and Pompey boss Redknapp is hoping that the 26-year-old will be fit for his side's next match, away to Fulham on November 28, when Nigel Quashie is suspended.

That would see Faye, dubbed the south coast's Patrick Vieira, available for selection when Pompey take on Saints in the Carling Cup at St Mary's on December 2.

Redknapp said: "We're waiting for the results of a scan but we don't think it's as bad as we first thought which is great news."

Meanwhile Alexei Smertin, the Russia midfielder on loan at Pompey from Chelsea, has recovered from his knee injury in time for his country's two legged Euro 2004 play off against Wales.

Russia take on Paul Jones and co in Moscow on Saturday, followed by next week's return leg at the Millennium Stadium.