'A culture of unison'

You could forgive a side languishing rock bottom of the Premier League, without a win and a solitary point from nine games, if they allowed disharmony and division to creep in.

So, with Saints going into their 10th league game, pressure mounting for points and not just performances, it was almost unusual the signs of unity permeating from within the club. Before the game, players were declaring their love for Russell Martin.

Martin was praising supportive owners. It indicates a culture of unison internally, even if opinions continue to be divided externally.

Yes, there is a long way to go if Southampton are to secure another season in the top flight. But they have a far greater chance of doing so if that culture continues.