MIDFIELDER Will Smallbone believes Gavin Bazunu's injury will add "fuel to the fire" for Southampton's promotion push.

Bazunu suffered an Achilles injury ahead of facing Preston on Tuesday evening, which looks to have brought his season to an early end.

The 22 year old had started every Championship game for Saints this season and is an important cog in their build-up play.

Smallbone, who also plays with Bazunu for the Republic of Ireland, insisted Saints will use the keeper's injury as further motivation in their last four games.

He said: “Nobody likes to see anybody get injured. I am very disappointed for him. Hopefully, it won’t be too long of an injury and he will be back as soon as possible.

“He has been so good for us this season but he is potentially going to have to miss them. We will try our best to get over the line for him. It will only add fuel to the fire.

“Nobody would wish an injury on him but it gives us another incentive to make sure we get over the line.

“It’s always been our goal to do it for the fans and everyone in here. For Gav, we want to make sure we do it for him.”