Agustin Delgado has unexpectedly turned up for training at Southampton after sensationally quitting the club last week.

The indecisive striker had flown back to Ecuador blaming a rift with Saints boss Gordon Strachan for his sudden departure.

But he turned up for the club's regular training session on Tuesday and is preparing to fight for his place.

Strachan, who denied a bust-up with Delgado, says the striker's U-turn remains a mystery.

The injury is disappointing - I am absolutely sick Injured Rory Delap

"He turned up out of the blue," Strachan told the club's website.

"He apologised to me for the trouble he has caused and for disappearing like that.

"That is all I know."

Delgado's swift return could be explained by the fact that he risked having a worldwide ban slapped on him by Fifa.

Fifa have the power to bar a player if they leave the club without permission.

Delgado, who cost �3.2 from Mexican side Necaxa, has found it difficult to settle with the Premiership side and has been hampered by back and knee problems.

The Ecuadorian will now meet Saints chairman Ruperb Lowe later this week to determine his future.

Meanwhile, Southampton mainstay Rory Delap is expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks.

A scan has revealed the Republic of Ireland international tore ligaments in his left knee during Southampton's 2-0 FA Cup victory over Norwich.

It is devastating news for Delap, who has only just made his comeback after a calf injury.

"It is bitterly disappointing - I am absolutely sick," he told the club's website.

"I have to accept it could take six weeks which would be around the date of the semi-final if we get through."

"This is all I needed because it will rule me out of some important league games and probably Ireland's Euro 2004 qualifiers too."