SAINTS manager Russell Martin has called for patience surrounding new signing Ross Stewart, hinting at a potential full return after the October international break.
The two-time Scottish international netted 10 goals in 13 Championship games last season for Sunderland but is recovering from an Achilles injury he suffered.
Stewart, who joined on deadline day, last played a competitive game in January, coming off after just 20 minutes against Fulham in the FA Cup.
The 27 year old is back on the training pitch and has been fully integrated with his new teammates, but continues to build his fitness on a different pitch to the first-team squad.
Asked whether he has a timeframe for Stewart’s recovery, Martin said: “We can’t expect too much from Ross.
“He is on the grass and he is with the rehab physio and Bill (Styles) the rehab sports scientist.
“It will take as long as it takes for us to get him to a place where we know he can be there and stay there, rather than trying to dip him in too quickly and then lose him.
“I think we have to be sensible. I’m really excited about getting him in. He is massive and a great guy. I tried to sign him before, as you know. He will be brilliant for us.
“I think he’s enjoying being around the lads. He’s been in every meeting, but he just has to train on a different pitch, unfortunately.
“When he gets to a point where he is ready, you guys will know about it. I just don’t want to put a timescale on it.
“He is in a really good place. Maybe this next bulk of five (six) games is going to be difficult to get him to a place where he can really kick on.
“Then we have a break, which I think will suit him really well for the timescale of his rehab.
“He is desperate to be let off the leash. He has been out for a while and he is desperate to prove to everyone that he deserves to be here.”
Saints take on Leicester City, Ipswich Town, Middlesbrough, Leeds United, Stoke City and Rotherham before the October international break.
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