Claude Puel backs Southampton to end silverware drought
Tuesday 29 November 2016 19:04, UK
Southampton boss Claude Puel believes his squad is talented enough to win a trophy this season, ahead of their EFL Cup quarter-final against Arsenal.
The Saints make the trip to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday aiming to reach their first domestic semi-final since winning the Football League Trophy in 2010.
Saints' last major silverware was in 1976, and Puel said there is a desire within his squad to end that record.
"I believe (it is possible to win the EFL Cup) with my players - but I do not know if it is possible first time," said Puel.
"Before I consider winning it, we have to win (against Arsenal). Every game is very difficult.
"The most important objective is to stay qualified in (as many competitions as possible) and we will see in the second part of the season.
"We want to win (trophies), we need to keep our concentration and perform as well as we can and after that we will see."
Puel says he needs to find the right balance between youth and experience against Arsene Wenger's side, as he has so far used the competition to give game time to his younger players.
Sunday saw a 1-0 win over Everton for Saints, with 19-year-old Josh Sims starring in attack, but Puel is expected to make a number of changes to his side.
"It is an important game," Puel added. "It is a different competition, it is away at Arsenal and I think that means it is important for the players too.
"It is a good competition to try to win something for the club and I think all my players are ambitious for this competition.
"It is an opportunity for Southampton to win something, we have the ability. It is important to give opportunities for young players to show their qualities.
"It is a balance between getting the result and continuing the work to develop different players and give game time for players without time in the Premier League.
"We started at the beginning (of the competition) with just young players (in the side) and now the teams are mixed of young and experienced.
"I (came to the club) to give young players the opportunity to develop. Southampton have good players in the academy.
"I know my job is to help develop these young players in the academy. These players can improve every time. All the players are making progress."
Upgrade to Sky Sports now and get 12 months half price. Hurry, offer ends December 4th!
