Ryan Manning points to the key reason Southampton will be ‘at the top end’ of the Championship

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Ryan Manning seems confident that Southampton will be involved in the battle for the Championship title this season, with the Republic of Ireland international pointing to a key reason behind this confidence.

This confidence may be surprising due to the mixed start that Southampton have made to the season, winning only one of their opening four Championship fixtures this campaign.

Manning made his first start for the Saints this season in their 2-2 draw against Watford, their last game before the international break; however, he has enjoyed his start to the season, as he scored the equaliser for Southampton against Wrexham.

Now, he has pointed to why their season will improve with the Irish media while on international duty.

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Ryan Manning points to Will Still as the key for Southampton

Will Still was not involved in the Premier League campaign at Southampton and has looked to change the club and mentality of those at the Saints.

Ryan Manning has admitted it has not been a great start; however, he has faith in his new manager to turn things around quickly with Southampton.

As reported by the Southern Daily Echo, he said: “He’s spent a lot of time in European football but has been brilliant since he’s come in.

“The way he gets his messages across and the staff who have come in have been really good for us. The club was in a difficult place.

“After a tough year in the Premier League, he’s been brilliant with such a clear message so everyone knows on match day what we’re trying to do.

“We’ve had a tough start with some results, but over the course of the season we’ll be there or thereabouts at the top end because you can see already he’s a top manager.”

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Ryan Manning on creating memories for Ireland

While the 29-year-old was talking positively about Southampton and the impact of Will Still, he was more focused on what he could do with Ireland, as he is aiming to help them reach the World Cup.

Manning is likely to start the match on Saturday against Hungary, and he is excited to try and create memories for the Irish public, the way he remembers the 2002 World Cup campaign of Ireland.

As reported by the Irish Times, he said: “Believe it or not, I remember the penalty shoot-out against Spain, the one we lost when we went out.

“I was in my local pub with my family watching it. So, you know, for us, we want to be able to create memories like that in a World Cup campaign.

“I remember the Euro campaigns, and it’s such a good time at home here in Ireland. I think we definitely need to qualify for a major tournament now and sort of create some memories for the younger generation.”