STRIKER Kevin Phillips looks certain to be back for Sunderland's crucial home clash against fellow relegation candidates Southampton on Saturday.

The 28-year-old missed the 4-0 defeat at Chelsea after picking up a muscle strain just above the knee, forcing him to end a run of 33 consecutive Premiership appearances.

The 11-goal predator's finishing power was sorely missed at Stamford Bridge - but manager Peter Reid had no regrets about refusing to risk his star player.

Reid said: "If it had been a knock I'd have played him.

"But you can't take risks with muscle injuries - if he had gone out against Chelsea and sustained a serious injury I would never have forgiven myself.

"These are crucial decisions a manager has to make but I always try to make the right ones. You have to err on the side of caution.

"It was a decision, even though we have lost, I am still comfortable with."

Reid is confident that Phillips will be back in action against Southampton, who come to the Stadium of Light chasing a double after a 2-0 home victory in December.

And he could also have three other players back in contention - Claudio Reyna, who has a slight hamstring problem, Julio Arca (ankle), and defender Joachim Bjorklund (hamstring).

Reid said: "With a bit of luck we could have four players back for our next game, which will be a massive bonus and might prove to be a little bit of inspiration we are looking for."

He admitted: "We need goals and I think Patrick Mboma and Kevin Phillips will give us that.

"It is a massive game against Southampton because things at the bottom half of the table are very tight.

"But that's the Premiership and that is why it's just fantastic to be part of it."

Chelsea, with all guns blazing as they chase Newcastle United for a place in next season's Champions League, have now scored 19 goals against Sunderland in their last five League games at Stamford Bridge.

However, Reid felt the 4-0 scoreline was not an accurate reflection on the game. He said: "I thought midway through the second half that we might nick an equaliser but their second goal was a killer.

"Stamford Bridge is always a difficult place to come to - Chelsea have good players, good pace and quality right through the side!"

Versatile defender Darren Williams is sure Sunderland have the ability to battle their way to safety after another set back, but he admitted: "It's all hands to the pumps."

The Teessider said: "We have got to beat the teams which are near us.

"We've got to beat Southampton on Saturday and then go to Arsenal the week after and work just as hard as we did at Chelsea and hopefully get something out of it.

"I think the scoreline flattered Chelsea - we were in the game, but like our season's been so far we aren't scoring goals and that's what wins games for you."

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