Southampton Scare Big Teams – Ronald Koeman

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman says big teams are becoming scared of his in-form fourth-placed side.
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The 51-year-old has been named Premier League manager of the month for January following a period in which they beat Arsenal and Manchester United.
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“Maybe they thought it would be very difficult for Southampton to keep that spirit, but we are fourth in February,” Koeman told BBC Radio Solent.
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“They now take us seriously. They are a little bit afraid now, I think.”
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Koeman was also named as the manager of the month for September, after four wins from the first seven league games.
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But he saw his side lose four consecutive league matches between 30 November and 13 December, before winning five of their next six league games.
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They remain in the Champions League qualification places and are just one point behind third-placed Manchester United.
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Koeman has been forced into using youngsters such as midfielder Harrison Reed because of injuries to experienced players Morgan Schneiderlin and Victor Wanyama, while centre-half Toby Alderweireld also suffered an injury in the 1-0 win at Old Trafford.
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“The most important thing at that time was the spirit that the players showed, even with a lot of injuries and some key players not involved in the team, said Koeman.
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“That gave opportunities to young players, and they showed their qualities.
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“I think English football likes the Southampton team and how they’ve played. January was a great month.”