Coach Russell Martin verified Ross Stewart is expected to play for the Saints against Leeds United the following Saturday.
The 27-year-old’s injury-plagued maiden season at St Mary’s has seen just two fleeting substitute appearances.
With a long-term Achilles injury, Stewart came on the south coast after signing a £10 million deal from Sunderland.
He has not played since suffering a hamstring injury in the draw at Huddersfield in November.
On the last day of the Championship season, however, fans may get one more look at the forward at Elland Road.
“Yes, if all goes according to plan, Ross will start on the bench against Leeds next week,” Martin stated.
“Hopefully, with luck, he’s progressed quite well during training. After a long workout on Sunday morning, he’ll have time to rest.
Next week, he will be completely integrated into the team. If all goes according to plan, we are excited to have Ross join the team.”
Stewart would be Che Adams’ backup in the playoffs. Stewart scored ten goals in 13 Championship games for Sunderland last season.
After scoring 24 goals in both the regular season and the semifinal, the former Black Cats striker scored at Wembley in the League One playoff final in 2022.
When Saints play Stoke City at home in their last league home game of the regular season, Stewart will not be available.