Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is happy to have a full week with his players after defeat on debut to Cardiff City.

Now with a full week before Arsenal visit St Mary's next Sunday, the new boss is determined to use the time wisely ahead on the training pitch of a hectic festive period.

“It's the most important week in the next month, because we have enough time to work on a lot of things," Hasenhüttl said.

“There are a lot of things that are not autonomous and are not habits, which is what we want to see. We have time now, and we need fill this time with impacts."

Hasenhüttl paid tribute to the travelling Saints fans for their support at the Cardiff City Stadium, despite the 1-0 defeat in south Wales.

“I was very glad they had such a good feeling," he added. “It is what the guys need in this moment.

“I think they feel we tried everything, and they helped us to stay focused until the last minute.

“I think they know it's a tough time and we have a lot of problems at the moment, but they help us, and I hope we can pay back everything they gave us."