Southampton manager Ruben Selles has been assessing Will Smallbone on loan.

The Republic of Ireland international, who is only 23, was impressive for the Saints during pre-season.

He was then loaned out to Stoke City, where he has thrived this season.

“Yes, Will has been doing really good in Stoke and had a good pre-season with us before he went.

“As I said, I always like when the player has the feeling of the club at his core. Will is a Southampton boy and has been really working well here."

Selles added: “He is growing but let's see as I don't lose one second to think about next season, but Will is a Southampton player and he deserves a chance."