JUNIOR Stanislas is set for another lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury.

The winger, who his missed large chunks of this campaign with various knocks, was forced off after just 23 minutes against Fulham on Saturday.

And it has now been confirmed that the 29-year-old will not play again this season.

Boss Eddie Howe said: "Junior went under the knife yesterday for an operation on his hamstring.

"He will be out I think for around three to four months.

"It's a big blow for him and a big blow for us. It's been a tough season for Junior. A lot of injuries, setbacks and disappointments but he'll come back stronger next season."

He added: "I think Junior's mentality is very strong.

"He has had to overcome similar problems previously, he's always come back and played a big part.

"Although he hasn't played a huge amount of games, he has contributed to the team when he has played.

"The challenge for us and Junior is to keep himself consistently fit, because when he does play he has got undoubted talent."

Stanislas was a late call-up into the side against Fulham for his 27th appearance of the campaign after Adam Smith pulled out injured in the warm-up with a knee problem.

And Smith will also be absent for the trip to St Mary's, while a late call will be made on former Southampton man Nathaniel Clyne.

Lewis Cook, Simon Francis, Diego Rico, Charlie Daniels and Andrew Surman all remain sidelined.

"The long-term injuries are still the same," said Howe.

"Adam will definitely be missing tomorrow, but we'll have to wait and see whether he'll play again before the end of the season.

"We hope that he's avoided a long-term injury."