Pahars picked up the problem while training in Latvia and will be out of action for up to five weeks.

But the Latvian international received some good news on Friday when his work permit was renewed on appeal for another three years.

Pahars' initial application was turned down by the Department of Employment because he is not in the top 70 of the Fifa player rankings.

However, Southampton were able to convince the appeal hearing that their leading scorer had enhanced the English game.

Pahars will not have to apply again as he will qualify for residency when the new permit expires.

But Saints fans may have to wait for the little striker's first appearance this season, as surgeons have put his expected recovery period at four or five weeks.

"It is disappointing but it is just one of those things," club chairman Rupert Lowe said of the injury.

"There was no way we could have known this was going to happen, otherwise he would have had the operation at the end of the season.

"He may or may not recover in time for the first league match, but if not then it will be an opportunity for others," Lowe told the club website.