Southampton boss Nathan Jones has urged fans to get behind Jan Bednarek after his recall from a loan with Aston Villa.

The recall came with a mixed reaction from Saints fans after Bednarek spoke about his excitement at joining a 'bigger club' in his introductory interview with Aston Villa.

But asked about the potential negative reception the Polish international could receive from the Saints faithful, Jones told the Daily Echo, “We spoke about it but he's an experienced international player," Jones said. “I understand why there will be…but let's take some context. Some people say some stuff when they go somewhere. And it just happens. You just say it because you want to endear yourself.

“Sometimes you don't think or sometimes you don't think about what the collateral damage could be behind you but there was no malice about it.

“He loves the club, he's very popular in the changing room, and he worked very very hard for Southampton. It wasn't anything to do with the club. He probably just wanted to endear himself to Aston Villa and that's how I would see it."