The winger for Newcastle United will be sidelined at his loan club for a month.
Due to a knee injury, Ryan Fraser, a winger for Newcastle United, will miss Southampton’s next five games.
Fraser, who signed a season-long loan agreement with the Saints last summer, was benched after just 18 minutes of Saturday’s 2-1 Championship loss to Millwall.
It has now been revealed that the 30-year-old, who exited The Den on crutches, will be out for a month.
“He’ll be sidelined for a little while, unfortunately,” stated manager Russell Martin. “It’s a significant setback for us, and a tough blow for him. However, we anticipate his return probably after the international break, and hopefully not long after that, all going well.
“We feel the absence of his relentless running ability. His skill in delivering crosses on the move, his eagerness to score or assist, and his dedicated teamwork are all qualities we miss.
“Now, it’s an opportunity for the other players to step up. In football, when someone is injured, it opens the door for someone else. I’m disappointed for Wee Man because he has been outstanding since he arrived. His performance data speaks for itself.”
“You don’t need to analyze that to recognize the impact he has made. I believe everyone has enjoyed having him around, and he will undoubtedly play a significant role for us in the upcoming matches. Our focus now is to ensure he regains fitness as quickly as possible.”
In contrast to other loaned players like Harrison Ashby and Yankuba Minteh, who returned to Tyneside for treatment earlier in the season, Fraser has opted to stay on the South Coast.
“I don’t think he has any intention of going back to Newcastle for treatment,” Martin explained. “He wants to be involved here and be a part of the dressing room. That’s our preference, as he is a significant character in the team.”
Fraser is not anticipated to make a return until after the international break, meaning he will be absent for tonight’s FA Cup clash against Liverpool and at least four league fixtures.
Southampton will feel the absence of the former AFC Bournemouth winger, who has contributed significantly with eight goals in 32 appearances this season. Despite having one year left on his Newcastle contract, it’s unlikely he will feature for the club again, given his falling out with Eddie Howe last year.
Expressing interest in securing the Scotsman on a permanent basis, manager Martin previously stated, “We want good players and we want good characters – Ryan definitely fits into that. The fact that he feels this way after a short time here is really fantastic for us as a group of players and staff, showcasing what we are trying to build.
“People feel a sense of belonging and a desire to be part of it. He is thoroughly enjoying himself, and his energy has been outstanding over the last few weeks. Whether it’s a passing drill or a warm-up, he does everything with great commitment in training.”
“He’s a fantastic professional who has greatly benefited the organization. Keeping doing what he is doing is the finest thing he can do. Between now and the conclusion of the season, a lot will happen.”