Ghana winger Kamaldeen Sulemana has been confirmed unavailable for Southampton's Championship campaign due to a muscle injury.
Southampton manager Russell Martin provided an update on Sulemana's condition during a press conference on Friday, confirming that the player has been receiving specialised treatment for the muscle injury.
The 20-year-old is yet to make an appearance for the St. Mary's Stadium outfit this season as the club battle for a promotion back to the English Premier League.
"Kamaldeen had a muscle injury and that is hard. He's been away for the last few days getting some specialist treatment as it’s been a busy physio room and I’ve had to prioritize performance," Russell Martin told reporters
Sulemana's absence from the pitch has fueled speculation about his future, with transfer interest from other clubs reported this summer.
While Martin acknowledged the interest, he emphasised Sulemana's importance to Southampton, stating, "He is our player and we want him as fit as we possibly can to try and help us on the pitch."
Sulemana has been linked with a move to several clubs in the ongoing summer transfer window including Everton, OGC Nice, Lille and AS Monaco.
He is Southampton's record signing after securing his signature from French Ligue 1 outfit AS Rennes for £22 million.