Manager Ralph Hasenhüttl has been speaking about the shift in mentality in his squad as vital to the recent run of success they have been enjoying in the Premier League.
Saints have won seven games so far this term, their best return since 2014/15, having also started the congested month of December brightly with back-to-back wins.
Their most trying period is perhaps yet to come, with a trip to Arsenal followed by a match-up with Man City, but the manager is confident that the strides the team has made this season will stand up against even the toughest of tests.
"This is one of the most important behaviours you should have as a manager, you never shut the door on anybody," Hasenhüttl said. "You need every player you have, every player is important.
"If he's fit, he can give you something. I always tell them that when we're training hard and pushing then we all get better, and when we all get better we are all seen and get more successful.
"It doesn't make sense to be frustrated. We don't have any players in the moment that think like that. The squad and the success of the club is the most important thing.
Discussing the fixture congestion, the possibility of rotation and the prospect of facing an out-of-form Arsenal side, the manager added: "Not a lot of time to prepare for this game.
"We have plenty of good young lads. They are giving real pressure and this is definitely what I want to see. It's a good signal for us, that we have some good alternatives in hand. I hope that we find more and more chances to give the younger players minutes to play.
ralph hasenhüttl
the squad and the success of the club is the most important thing.
southampton fc manager
"It's difficult in the moment because this team is very successful, so it is tough to step in. When you're working hard and showing up then there's always a chance.
"Nearly every player from this first XI has spent a time sitting in the stands whilst I've been here. That's where the mentality in the squad has changed, because we all push each other to grow and be better.
"We're not playing the stats, we're playing an Arsenal side with quality. We should always concentrate on every part of our game, we need a perfect shape against the ball. We must find the right messages."
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