ABSENT trio Moussa Djenepo, Mohammed Salisu and Will Smallbone are all set to miss Sunday's trip to Aston Villa.

Salisu, who is yet to make his Saints debut following his summer arrival from Real Valladolid, is continuing to build up his match fitness while Djenepo (hamstring) and Smallbone (quad) have also missed the past two games against Chelsea and Everton.

Asked for an update on the trio ahead of the clash at Villa Park, boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said: "They’re all back in team sessions. So far not back fit to play, but they’re on a good way, all three guys. The rest (of the squad) are all fit."

Quizzed further on if Djenepo, Salisu or Smallbone could feature against Villa, Hasenhuttl added: "No, for this it’s a little bit too early I think. But they are on a good way I think."