CLAUDE Puel has backed Shane Long and Jay Rodriguez to step up against AFC Bournemouth after free-scoring Manolo Gabbiadini was ruled out with injury.

The in-form Italian has netted six goals in five games for Saints since arriving in a £14m deal from Napoli in January.

But, after picking up a groin injury in the 2-1 defeat to Tottenham last time out, he is now sidelined for the Cherries game tomorrow.

That means Puel will have to turn to either Rodriguez or Long to take on striker duties.

“We know the importance of Gabbiadini, but it’s an opportunity to see different players like Long and Rodriguez,” the St Mary’s chief said.

“We have possibilities and we have good players. It’s an opportunity for them to show their qualities.

“It’s a good thing for the team when different players can have game time. It’s important for the spirit of the squad and to show the team is not just 11 players.”

Gabbiadini will now be monitored but Puel is hopeful he will be available to play against Crystal Palace on Wednesday.

Rodriguez has history of scoring against the Cherries this term, having netted twice in the 3-1 comeback win in December at the Vitality Stadium.

“It was a good game for him,” Puel said. “I don’t know the team for the moment [if he will start].

“He did do good participation in that game.”

Both Long and Rodriguez had alternated up front prior to Gabbiadini’s arrival, scoring six and five goals in all competitions respectively.

However, the Italian international hit the ground running, which meant that both were kept on the fringes of the team.

But now against Bournemouth they will come back into the limelight.

Another player Puel may look to ahead of a busy period is Sofiane Boufal.

The club's £16m record signing has had an up and down season, during which he has struggled for consistency amid a number of injuries.

"It's been a little difficult for Sofiane," Puel said. "We know he is talented, he is a fantastic player. He can make the difference in many situations.

"For the moment he lacks some confidence in the play and I need to discuss with him to find a good solution.

"It's important to see him on his level and happy to play with his team.

"For the moment there's a lot of pressure.

"It's difficult for him to just have a few minutes to play.

"It's a player who likes to play and he needs confidence."