MANAGER Ivan Juric is "delighted" to have Ross Stewart back in training and is hopeful the injury-hit forward will feature again before the end of the season.

Stewart, 28, has not played for the senior team since being forced off 27 minutes into his first start for Southampton in early October.

He recently played 45 minutes for the under-21s against Sunderland, but his recovery was scaled back after medial staff noticed a reaction after the game.

Juric urged caution over rushing Stewart back to Premier League action while admitting he likes what the former Sunderland forward can offer.

"I'm really delighted with the characteristics of this player," Juric told the Daily Echo. "He's not physically okay yet.

"He started training with us. I like him a lot because he's fast enough, and technically very good. He knows how to score a goal.

Ross Stewart pictured alongside manager Ivan Juric.Ross Stewart pictured alongside manager Ivan Juric. (Image: Matt Watson / Southampton FC)

"I really like him. At this moment, I think he has to be careful not to injure himself again. He's a very good player."

Stewart signed for Saints from Sunderland for a fee of around £9million while injured in 2023 and has made just nine appearances since.

Asked if Stewart could feature again before the end of the 2024/25 season, Juric simply replied: "Yes."

Fellow injury-hit full-back Larios was also pictured training with the first team during the international break, having returned to regular action with the under-21s.

However, Juric outlined that the Spaniard will likely continue to build fitness with Calum McFarlane's group. 

"Now I want Ross with us," Juric concluded. "He's not playing anymore for the under-21s. We will see if we can use him. Larios is a different situation. He's more with the under-21s.