Cedric Soares has been ruled out for the visit of Arsenal on Sunday.

The Portuguese right back missed the draw at Bournemouth with a hamstring injury, and hasn’t recovered in time to face the Gunners at St Mary’s.

That will most likely mean Jeremy Pied continuing in the side.

Pellegrino reported: “We have got Cedric Soares that won’t be ready for Sunday. He is the only one.”

Arsenal come into the game after a terrific performance but frustrating defeat against Manchester United, and then a Europa League hammering of Bate Borisov.

“Now we are more or less in the top third of the league and it’s difficult to draw conclusions. It is too early. The last third is the most important part of the season,” said Pellegrino of Sunday’s opposition.

“Arsenal have to have this race at the end with good performances.

“It is a really strong side, this year not in the Champions League but most of the time they are always fighting in the top four.

“This year I think they brought important players and I think they are a really good team.

“It will be difficult for us to beat them, it will be a nice challenge, but Arsenal is a tough team.”