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Premier League: Stoke boss Mark Hughes hails in-form Southampton

Manager Mark Hughes of Stoke City on the touchline during the Barclays Premier League match between Stoke City and Leicester
Image: Mark Hughes: We won't lose 8-0 like Sunderland

Stoke boss Mark Hughes has praised the work of his Southampton counterpart Ronald Koeman, who has led the Saints into third spot in the Premier League table.

Southampton have banked 15 points from their last six matches despite seeing a number of their leading players depart during the summer months, along with former manager Mauricio Pochettino.

The Potters travel south on Saturday to take on their in-form opponents at St Mary’s where last weekend Sunderland were demolished 8-0.

And while Hughes insists that his Stoke side will certainly be no pushovers, he was quick to hail Koeman’s side.

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Sky Sports' Ed Chamberlin previews Southampton versus Stoke.

Regarding the sweeping changes made at Southampton, Hughes said: "When it happens in such a short space of time it's difficult because they lost their manager and they lost two or three key players who had been exceptional for them the year previously.

"There was perhaps a fear if they didn't get the right players in, and the right manager, then there could be a difficulty.

"But in fairness they have not had the issue of being unable to go into the market and spend good money.

"They've had a decent amount of money to work with that has enabled them to get good quality into the building.

"After that, of course, you have the problem of getting the dynamic and balance right in the dressing room but they seem to have done that, and that's the impressive thing.

"I'm sure they're very happy with how their season has gone because there was talk they would struggle – not a view I shared I have to say - but there is always that worry when you make changes."

As for Saturday’s game and taking on a Saints side who netted eight times last week, he went on: "It doesn't matter at what level you play. To beat another team 8-0 is an outstanding performance.

"We go there with them on an obvious high given the performance and result, but we're in a confident mood ourselves.

"We won last time out, so we'd like to think we'll make a better fist of it. We'll recognise the talent and ability they have in their squad but we've plenty of that ourselves, so they know it will be a difficult game for them.

"It's up to us to make sure their win over Sunderland was a one-off performance and result, and is not something that will influence our game."

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