Van Dijk has not played since he suffered a ligament problem against Leicester in January and the club said in a statement that he is "unlikely to play again this season."

The statement added: "Van Dijk damaged a ligament in the sole of his foot during the victory over the Foxes and required surgery as a result. Although the procedure was relatively routine, the placement of the injury means that it takes some time to heal.

"The club hoped he would recover in time to feature before the end of the season, but, while his treatment and recovery is progressing well, the Dutch international will not be risked unnecessarily."

Saints manager Claude Puel had earlier said he was unsure whether Van Dijk would return before the end of the season.

"[Van Dijk's] is a long injury and we will see if he can come back before the end of the season," Puel said.

"The injury does not change anything. He is an important player for us, our captain and it is important he takes this role with good quality, good attitude and good spirit.

"For me he is among the best defenders in the Premier League but he can play with us and we can give him good maturity for the future."