Jack Stephens insists he cares about Southampton as much as any fan.

The defender says Saints is now "part of me".

He told the Daily Echo: “I care enormously.

"I've got a lot of pride playing for and representing this club.

“Sometimes it's difficult in football because players get labelled that they don't care and that they are mercenaries.

“I've been here nine years now and it's become a part of me. I've got a natural interest in this club doing well. "