Tottenham Hotspur Hugo Lloris in line for first-team return at Southampton

Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is in contention to make a return to the first team at Southampton this weekend, providing manager Mauricio Pochettino with a major boost ahead of the trip to his former club.

The France captain has missed the last three games with a deep cut to his knee, sustained following a collision with teammate Kyle Walker in the club’s 4-3 win over Leicester City, but has now returned to full training.

Provided he suffers no further setback this week, he will be available for selection at St Mary’s on Saturday, when he will likely replace Michel Vorm who has started the last three games.

Lloris was forced to watch from the sidelines for the draw at Burnley and defeat at home to Aston Villa, and also last weekend’s win over Newcastle United. 

Those results have left Tottenham sixth in the Barclays Premier League table, having played one match more than fifth-place Liverpool.

Manchester City are seven points clear in fourth with a far superior goal difference, leaving Champions League football next season a distant possibility.

Despite signing a new five-year contract in July, Lloris is reportedly considering his future at White Hart Lane, and his desire to play in the Champions League remains a priority.

He played in Europe’s top club competition in each of his four seasons at Lyon, and the majority of his international teammates play in the Champions League.

Tottenham confirmed on Monday that right-back Kyle Walker is expected to miss the next four weeks as he receives treatment on a foot injury, leaving him facing a race against time to play in the club’s final game of the season at Everton on May 24.

Danny Rose remains a doubt for this weekend after an injury forced him off in the final minutes of Sunday’s game.