Jannik Vestergaard dismisses Southampton’s Champions League chances despite Premier League successes

‘It is very early to talk about that’: Jannik Vestergaard dismisses Southampton’s Champions League chances despite moving top of the Premier League with victory over Newcastle

Southampton defender Jannik Vestergaard says it is too early to talk about Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side as European contenders despite their stunning start to the season.

Saints climbed to the top of the Premier League table for the first time in their history by beating Newcastle 2-0 on Friday night.

Only Manchester City and champions Liverpool have won more games in 2020 than the men from the south coast. 

Jannik Vestergaard has been part of a Southampton side that has hit exceptional form in 2020

The defender helped the club to another Premier League victory as they beat Newcastle 2-0

The defender helped the club to another Premier League victory as they beat Newcastle 2-0

But Denmark international Vestergaard insists the players are not getting carried away by that run.

Vestergaard said: ‘It is very early to start talking about that [Europe]. We have been in good form recently – for almost a year, I would say.

‘We are playing well because we are doing hard work and training hard but are taking each match at a time.

‘We know we still have room for development and that is where our focus is. We are getting to know and trust in what we do.

‘We do some stuff a bit differently and it’s just about the consistency of the squad and the team staying together for a longer period of time, working with the manager and getting his ideas across.

Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has guided his players to the top of the early Premier League table

Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has guided his players to the top of the early Premier League table

‘That has made us strong recently, not only in the performances but also the results.’

Theo Walcott’s return to his first club on loan from Everton has coincided with a run of three successive victories.

Former Arsenal star Walcott, who made his Saints debut as a 16-year-old, said: ‘Every time I put on the shirt I just feel like a kid. It brings back so many great memories.

‘I’ve had so many great experiences over the years but there’s just something about this club. To be top of the league as well, for the first time in our history, is a great thing to be a part of.’

Returning hero Theo Walcott is also enjoying himself in his second period at his formative club

Returning hero Theo Walcott is also enjoying himself in his second period at his formative club