"Massive difference" as fans return to St Mary's

Southampton suffered a 2-nil defeat to Leeds.

Author: Jason BeckPublished 19th May 2021

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said having their supporters back at St Mary's was a massive moment for everyone.

Around eight thousand were in attendance for the 2-nil defeat to Leeds, the first time fans were at one of their Premier League games since last December.

Hassenhuttl said: "It was a massive difference.

"The first 45 minutes were intense and I needed a break, to be honest with the emotions and the noise, it is very intense and a completely different game.

"It's a little bit more difficult to coach from outside because the voice is not able to shout over them, but it is fantastic to have them back and also after the game, it is a completely different atmosphere. I think this is what everybody missed this season so much.

"It is not long ago that we had this experience and you nearly forget what it is about and I'm so happy we are coming back to having them here."

Southampton will travel to West Ham on the final day of the Premier League season.