Wednesday 12 November 2014 19:01, UK
Southampton winger Sadio Mane believes they have enough quality to secure a Champions League place.
Ronald Koeman’s side have been the surprise package of the season so far and are second in the Premier League table after winning eight of their 11 matches.
A combination of resolute defending and exciting attacking play leaves the Saints seven points clear of fifth-placed Swansea and Mane is convinced they can continue to dumbfound their critics as the season progresses.
"I hope and I am confident that we can hold this pace and level of playing football," said Mane.
"Obviously, in the Premier League there are always the three, four or five big teams which can be found at the top of the table.
“But I am glad that so far, there are some teams up there that could be called a little surprise, including us.
"However, we have to stay realistic. It will be hard to remain where we are today. We will give our best to defend this place, and I have no doubt we have the potential and will."
Southampton paid £10m to sign Senegal international Mane from Red Bull Salzburg during the summer transfer window and he is pleased he rejected offers from other clubs to make the move to St Mary’s.
"Southampton is a big Premier League team with a long football tradition," he added.
"I always dreamed of playing in the Premier League, and I had a very good feeling about Southampton from the first contact.
"The entire philosophy, the smart way they progressively improved the team with dedicated transfers, the entire club environment and last but not least the highly professional and experienced coach, Ronald Koeman - that's why I chose Southampton as my next big challenge."
