ROMAIN Perruad missed the final two matches of the 2021-22 Premier League season with a foot fracture, but returned in time for the St Mary’s friendlies last week.

The Frenchman, ahead of his second season as a Saints player, missed out on the trip to Austria with almost the full group and its new signings.

Saints then travelled to Wealdstone to face Championship side Watford, drawing 0-0, when back from the continent, but Perraud was again absent from the group.

He made his return from the start during the eventual 3-1 win over AS Monaco and as a substitute versus Villarreal.

Daily Echo:

Moussa Djenepo could still start ahead of him at Tottenham Hotspur, in manager Ralph Hasenhuttl's new five-at-the-back shape.

On Instagram, Perraud posted this message to supporters: "Back on the pitch, step by step. See you soon Saints fans."

Djenepo, who had been playing left-wing-back in Perraud's absence, posted: "One more week before we start."

New signing Romeo Lavia, completing his first pre-seaso as a Saints player following a summer move from Manchester City, posted: "Pre season (Tick)."

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