Eckert gives updates on Southampton duo’s injuries after goalless draw with Bolton

Cyle Larin is expected to be available for Southampton’s trip to West Ham next weekend despite being forced off in the goalless draw with Bolton.

The striker was withdrawn after 41 minutes following a collision with goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, but head coach Tonda Eckert does not believe the problem is serious.

“His back is fine,” Eckert said.

“I think he had a collision early on and then he tried to carry on, but then I asked for a sub at one point.

“We’ll see how serious it is, but I’m hopeful he’ll be in for next week.”

Flynn Downes is a bigger doubt for the trip to his former club after suffering ankle ligament damage in the 1-0 win over Norwich City.

The midfielder missed the draw with Bolton, but Eckert has not ruled him out entirely for next weekend’s clash.

“It’s one of the three ligaments on the outside,” Eckert said.

“He’s done a couple of bits now where the medical team was surprised that he could do it.

“With the game coming up, he’s trying to push. It will be about how he manages pain. He’ll push for West Ham and see how we get through the week.

“That’s what we push for. It’s ambitious, but it’s possible.”