Southampton boss Claude Puel is looking forward to facing Arsene Wenger's Arsenal.

The 54-year-old Frenchman was managed by the Gunners boss for seven years at Monaco and since moving into management has been described as Wenger's protege.

Puel said: "Before signing for Southampton I spoke with him about the possibilities to coach in England.

"He said to me it would be a very good challenge to coach in England in the greatest championship in the world.

"It was important to sign for Southampton and to play against these managers."

He added: "Arsene Wenger was my trainer during seven years at Monaco. It (is) a pleasure to see him on the other bench.

"We didn't get the possibilities in the past to play against each other (as managers) in the Champions League for example.

"He played an important role at the beginning of my career."