Southampton boss Nigel Adkins defended his team selection for their thrashing by West Ham United.

Saturday's decision to start with top scorer Rickie Lambert on the bench confused many.

"I thought Jay Rodriguez did very well in the first half," Adkins said in defence of the team selection.

"We've got Jay Rodriguez, Emmanuel Mayuka, Rickie Lambert - we've got several players at the football club. Me as manager, it is my responsibility to pick from the group of players I have to select from.

"Everyone will have a different opinion, everyone will pick a different team.

"Whether I start Rickie Lambert, whether I bring Rickie Lambert on, whatever team is selected, there will always be a decision made about it.

"Ultimately, it is my decision as the manager to pick the team and the buck stops with me."