RALPH Hasenhuttl revealed Mohammed Salisu could be fit enough to feature for Saints against Newcastle United tomorrow evening.

The centre-back has proven a key figure for Saints this season, starting 24 of the club's 27 Premier League matches so far.

Saturday's 4-0 thumping at Aston Villa was just the second time Salisu has been absent from a league matchday squad this campaign, as he continued to nurse a hamstring injury.

Jack Stephens came into the side with Salisu unavailable, partnering Jan Bednarek at centre-back.

But boss Hasenhuttl says the Ghanaian could return for the visit of Eddie Howe's Magpies to St Mary's tomorrow (7.30pm).

"Sali, we will have a look if he manages to play tomorrow," he said.

"We will have a look how he is.

"The rest after the (Villa) game were fit, were okay. No fresh injuries."

Saints are still set to be without injured trio Lyanco, Alex McCarthy and Nathan Tella tomorrow night.

However, Hasenhuttl confirmed Tella is closing in on a return after missing almost two months with a groin injury.

"Tella was back in session, but not available for the game," said the Saints boss.