Jay Rodriguez has been overwhelmed by the messages of support he has received after seeing his World Cup hopes dashed by injury.

The forward suffered a rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament during last Saturday’s 4-1 defeat at Manchester City, meaning he will be sidelined for about six months.

It was a devastatingly cruel blow for Rodriguez, who had been in the form of his life and appeared to be close to securing a place in England’s squad for Brazil this summer.

However, despite the nature of the injury, the 24-year-old is keeping a positive outlook and has been touched by the heartfelt wishes that have been sent his way.

Rodriguez’s agent, Gary Mellor, said: “He is in excellent spirits considering the circumstances and is determined to come back stronger for club and country.

“He is overwhelmed by all the messages of support he has received from fellow professionals and fans.”

Rodriguez’s teammates have rallied round the club’s top scorer, as have supporters.

Messages poured in immediately following the match at City, and a further flood of them followed after the announcement was made on Monday night regarding the extent of the injury.

Saints have set up a dedicated page on their website for supporters to send their best wishes to Rodriguez, which the club have said they will pass on to the player.

Users of social media site Twitter have also been offering their support using the hashtag #GetWellSoonJay, with Saints also collating those messages to show Rodriguez.