Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse says the club's youngsters feel they have the full backing of manager Claude Puel.

The Frenchman's predecessor Koeman slated the famed academy that has produced the likes of Gareth Bale, Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw by stating that some of the players were not close to the required Premier League standard.

The contrasting statement of intent by Puel was music to Ward-Prowse's ears.

“He (Puel) made it clear on the first day he was here that it was the case that the pathway is there for young players," said the 21-year-old midfielder to the Daily Echo.

“He said that they (the young players) have just got to come on and take their opportunity and impress when they can.

“It's pleasing to see that.

“The club is based on that. I've gone through that process myself, so to see that the club are continuing to do that is great."