Manager Ronald Koeman has refused to close the door on Gaston Ramirez's Southampton future.
The 24-year-old winger made his first Saints appearance in 13 months after coming on as a substitute in their 6-0 League Cup demolition of MK Dons on Wednesday.
It was reported earlier this month that the Uruguayan - who spent last season on loan with Hull City, who were relegated - could negotiate the cancellation of his contract, allowing him to move on a Bosman.
"Gaston is part of the team, is training well and his behaviour is positive. I'm the first person to give that kind of player a chance," the Dutch coach told a press conference. "I spoke to him before starting pre-season and for the first time he had a normal holiday. After seven or eight days he got an injury and lost three weeks of pre-season.
"He isn't the first choice but I know his qualities. He is technically a very good player and if he is physically on a good level why not? It's all about your performance the whole week and if you get the chance to play you need to show your qualities.
"Sometimes maybe it is a mental question for a player but he needs to be 100 per cent physically well to perform. Maybe the Premier League is too physical for that kind of player but technically he is a very good player."
Ramirez, who earns in the region of £65,000 a week, cost £12m from Bologna in 2012.
Shane Callaghan
