Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a ‘long-term’ hamstring injury, according to journalist Jacob Tanswell.

The Lowdown: Injury concerns

The Saints picked up a vital three points thanks to a 1-0 Premier League victory over Bournemouth in midweek, and will now host league leaders Arsenal at St. Mary’s on Sunday.

However, they will have to do so without the services of the 25-year-old, who was forced off the pitch against the Cherries, and the fresh update on his fitness isn’t a positive one.

The Latest: Walker-Peters sidelined

Taking to Twitter, Tanswell relayed an update from Ralph Hasenhuttl, who has confirmed that Walker-Peters will be out of action for the foreseeable future.

“A big blow for #SaintsFC. Ralph Hasenhuttl confirms Kyle Walker-Peters is out with a long-term injury.”

In a further message, the reporter said:

“Hasenhuttl says Walker-Peters suffered a hamstring injury. The injury occurred when he overstretched for a ball in the second half against Bournemouth.”

The Verdict: Blow for Hasenhuttl

Walker-Peters being unavailable for selection for an unknown length of time will come as a huge blow to Hasenhuttl, who will recognise the significant role he plays in his starting XI.

The right-back was averaging 1.9 tackles and 1.3 dribbles per league game, and even had a goal to his name, highlighting the impact he has at both ends of the pitch (WhoScored).

When he will be able to return remains to be seen, but it’s vital that Southampton start picking up results if they don’t want to be in danger heading into the World Cup break.