SOUTHAMPTON have been handed a major boost ahead of tonight’s critical relegation scrap against Cherries with the news that striker Che Adams is available for selection.

Adams leads Saints' scoring charts with 10 goals in all competitions this season, but has missed the last four matches since picking up a calf injury while on international duty with Scotland.

But now the 26-year-old is eligible for selection once again while Mohammed Salisu, Tino Livramento, and Juan Larios remain sidelined according to Saints boss Ruben Selles.

“We have Larios, Salisu and Livramento who are not selectable," the Spaniard said on Wednesday afternoon.

"Che Adams is available for the game. We have Jan Bednarek who has had concussion protocol and that will end tonight at midnight, tomorrow we'll re-evaluate him."

In Adams’ absence, Saints have struggled for a consistent focal point up front as Paul Onuachu’s difficult adaptation to life in the Premier League goes on.

Selles opted not to start a natural striker in each of the last three games but Adams boasts a successful track record against Cherries having scored the winner at the Vitality Stadium in October.

Meanwhile, Selles and his side will be hoping that centre-back Bednarek successfully gets through the concussion protocols and is deemed ready to take part on Thursday evening.

Bednarek was forced off just before half time at the Emirates when he landed awkwardly on his head and neck after being backed into by Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli.

The 27-year-old has become a crucial member of the Saints defence, starting their last 12 Premier League matches.

Duje Caleta-Car was chosen to replace Bednarek following his withdrawal at Arsenal and the Croatian responded by nodding home at the back post to make it 3-1 before Sants were eventually forced to settle for a 3-3 draw.

The result left Saints bottom of the Premier League table. They are now six points adrift of safety.