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'All good!' - Bella-Kotchap issues message to supporters after shoulder dislocation

Southampton's Armel Bella-Kotchap comes off injured during the Premier League match between Southampton and West Ham at St Mary's Stadium. Photo by Stuart Martin..
Southampton's Armel Bella-Kotchap comes off injured during the Premier League match between Southampton and West Ham at St Mary's Stadium. Photo by Stuart Martin..

ARMEL Bella-Kotchap has issued a message of thanks to Saints supporters following his dislocated shoulder in the 1-1 draw with West Ham.

The German international, who is hoping to go to the World Cup just next month, was forced off the pitch just minutes before half-time of Sunday’s clash.

Bella-Kotchap, 20, immediately called for medical assistance as he appeared to injure his arm while going to ground on the edge of the Saints area.

The physios came on with oxygen readied and the summer signing left with his arm supported by his shirt, while Ralph Hasenhuttl confirmed the dislocation.

Speaking after the match, Hasenhuttl admitted it could be “anything from playing Wednesday to eight weeks out” for Bella-Kotchap, pre-assessment.

The Saints star took to Instagram to share his message of thanks with supporters, while he was pictured in a sling at home in a club-issued photo.

“Thank y’all for your messages, I really appreciate it,” Bella-Kotchap said.

“I’m all good! Coming back stronger!”

Hasenhuttl is likely to issue a further update on Bella-Kotchap’s condition either ahead of or following the upcoming Premier League meeting with AFC Bournemouth.

Saints travel to Vitality Stadium on Wednesday, October 19, with Duje Caleta-Car expected to stand in as the replacement for Bella-Kotchap.

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