SAINTS defender Armel Bella-Kotchap confirms his season is over through a hamstring injury after he left Nottingham Forest on crutches.

The young German has moved to thank fans for their support during his debut season in the Premier League and at St Mary’s.

Bella-Kotchap, 21, made 23 league appearances following a summer move from VFL Bochum but his season was disrupted heavily following a dislocated shoulder last year.

The centre-back has taken to social media, saying: “Unfortunately, the season is over for me.

“Thank you for your support, Saints family.”

Bella-Kotchap, who made his full Germany debut in November ahead of going to the World Cup in Qatar, is admired by clubs in top leagues across Europe.

His appearance at City Ground could have been his last in a Saints shirt with an exodus likely this summer following relegation into the Championship.