SAINTS boss Will Still has set the return date of Mateus Fernandes as next Wednesday, after his international involvement this summer.
The Portuguese, who turned 21 on Thursday, was involved in the Under-21 European Championships until quarter-final elimination on June 21.
As a result, midfielder Fernandes is yet to report back to Saints for pre-season, and missed Saturday's 2-1 win at Eastleigh to kick off the schedule.
But he is nearing a return to action with Still detailing that the current Saints and Daily Echo Player of the Year is due in, in the coming days.
"Matty's coming back on Wednesday," said Still, speaking at the Silverlake.
Saints manager Will Still (Image: Stuart Martin)
"He's had an extended break because of the Under-21 Euros but it's same thing for him as it is for other players.
"He'll be back in and he'll be working hard as soon as he can and we'll get him into a game situation as early as we can."
Ronnie Edwards, who won the Under-21 Euros with England, returned to training this week and could play against Gillingham on Tuesday.
Fernandes has been linked with transfer interest from Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace after impressing in 36 Premier League appearances.
He joined from Sporting CP in a £12.8million deal last summer, but is likely valued as now worth at least triple that after just one year at St Mary's.
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