United defender Lucketti has emerged as a key figure for Nigel Pearson's side since arriving at St Mary's on loan last month.

Pearson had considered naming Lucketti in his starting line-up for a match which could see Southampton relegated or United qualify for the play-offs before admitting that the defender had refused to take part.

"Chris Lucketti won't be playing," Pearson said. "He's made himself unavailable because of the situation that he finds himself in. That is his decision.

"We've tried to resolve the situation but unfortunately for us, we've not been able to resolve it.

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"That's unfortunate and it's disappointing not have him available but that's something I can't afford to dwell on and we have to make sure that the players are ready for the game.

"It was a difficult situation and we've tried hard to resolve it. We're not in a position to make him a permanent deal which is a shame and that would have been the best solution and one that we all wanted. Now I've moved on.

"I've got a squad of players who are available and that is important."
Lucketti had found himself in an unenviable position when it became apparent that Football League rules did not prevent him from featuring against his parent club and, given what is at stake, his decision is commendable and makes perfect sense.

Ninth-placed United trail Watford, in fifth, by three points while Crystal Palace, who occupy the fourth and final play-off spot, are two ahead of United.

Southampton, in 22nd, are level with Leicester City but find themselves in the relegation zone on goal difference. Blackwell, who was unveiled as Bryan Robson's permanent successor this morning, has enjoyed remarkable success since replacing the former England captain at the helm in February and knows that finishing the season on a high could see them sneak into the top-six; providing results elsewhere also go their way.

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