Southampton boss Claude Puel hailed Manolo Gabbiadini's debut in defeat to West Ham.

Gabbiadini endeared himself to the Southampton fans with a stunning debut this afternoon, and Puel insists the Italy international will go on to play a key role for the foreseeable future.

"For a first game we saw a lot of quality," he said. "It was a fantastic first goal and he had a good relationship with his partner with quality.

"He is always available to run in behind the lines. He can also play between the lines. It is very interesting, he can read the play and give assists. He is a very good player for and will be very important for the future."