Matt Le Tissier identifies the ‘biggest issue’ currently plaguing Southampton

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Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier has given his assessment of how the Saints have been performing under new manager Will Still.

They have only managed to win one of their opening six Championship fixtures under Still since he has taken the job ahead of this campaign, seeing them currently occupy 19th in the division.

The Saints are aiming to achieve promotion back to the Premier League this campaign following their relegation last season, and so an upturn in form is needed, particularly after they spent the second-highest amount in the Championship this summer in the transfer window.

The South Coast club may take heart in the fact that they have a fantastic home record against their next opponents, with Southampton unbeaten against Middlesbrough in 22 years at St Mary’s.

Le Tisser believes if they can get a win against Rob Edwards’ side to kickstart a run, then promotion is a possibility; however, one thing needs to be addressed.

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Matt Le Tissier believes late transfer business was the ‘biggest issue’ for Southampton

The Saints legend believes that Southampton can go on a long run of victories this season under Will Still, despite their poor start to the campaign.

Speaking to the Southern Daily Echo, he made it clear he has faith in the current Southampton manager should he earn seven points from the next three games.

Matt Le Tissier was speaking on behalf of Midnite, club sponsors of both Sheffield United and Southampton. Midnite will be putting on free coach travel – dubbed The Midnite Express – for Saints fans for their trip to Sheffield United on Tuesday, September 30.

Le Tisser pointed to the key reason for their poor start, as he said: “It’s been a disappointing start in terms of points. The biggest issue for me is the fact the squad changed so much late in the window.

“We’ve sold two of our best young talents [Matty Fernandes, Tyler Dibling] and obviously had to make some late replacements. They’ve come in.

“Now it’s Will’s job to get them to settle into a formation that they’re comfortable with and for Will to find out what his best team is.

“I would say you want at least seven points in these next three games.”

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Southampton desperate to correct their recent Championship form

Le Tisser may be too optimistic about the Saints being able to secure seven points from the next three games due to their recent form across the previous two seasons.

Southampton have won just one of their previous 20 league fixtures, with this coming in dramatic fashion on the opening day of this season as they beat Wrexham 2-1.

While Middlesbrough have a poor record away to the Saints, they will be confident they can beat anyone at the minute, as they have made their best start to a league campaign this season, collecting 16 points from their opening six fixtures.

To correct this poor form, Southampton will have to secure their first win against Middlesbrough since May 2017.