Gavin Bazunu: Southampton goalkeeper out until 2025 with Achilles tendon injury

Gavin Bazunu limped off during the warm-up ahead of the game with Preston on Tuesday

Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu will be out until 2025 after rupturing his Achilles tendon.

The 22-year-old was injured during the warm-up ahead of Saints' 3-0 win over Preston on Tuesday night.

The Republic of Ireland international has been first choice at St Mary's since joining from Manchester City for a reported £12m fee in June 2022.

This season he has started 41 league games, keeping 11 clean sheets, and played six times for Ireland.

"Gavin had an operation yesterday. He's ruptured his Achilles tendon so it was as bad as we feared. He will be out for around 9 to 10 months," manager Russell Martin told the club website.

"I spoke to him before the operation and he wasn't in a good place but last night he was way more positive.

"We will rally behind him. We're really devastated for Gav. But he'll get through it and be stronger for it. We look forward to seeing him on Monday.

"Gavin has had a huge setback, there will be some dark and lonely moments over the next 10 months. We will support him and get around him."