Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino says they'll rejected Europa League participation if it comes via the Fair Play League.

Saints are in the running for a potential Europa League place via UEFA's Fair Play League but, like Liverpool, have confirmed they would not accept a place in the competition.

"We would not accept it either if we were awarded that possibility," Pochettino told the Daily Echo.

"We have spoken with the chairman and decided not to take that offer because I think in football what you are awarded in football needs to be earned on the pitch.

"We will only accept possibilities when we've earned them on the pitch and not just by fair play, but actually earning it with points and results."