It has not been the best start to the season for the Southampton fans in the Football Transfer Tavern…

Claude Puel has struggled thus far, in the footsteps of Ronald Koeman, with the Saints currently sitting 14th in the Premier League.

Insecurity at the back and a lack of success up front mean that Southampton have won just 1 game so far this season – leaving the Saints in the Tavern concerned about the rest of the Premier League season.

However, our landlord is convinced that Southampton’s struggles will be short term issues – and that Puel will come good in the end.

He thinks that the squad that Southampton have will demand success – and he has even touted Southampton for a top 6 finish in the Premier League this season.

With that said, here are THREE reasons Claude Puel can 100% get Southampton into the top six…..

Squad Quality

The obvious answer, according to our landlord, is the simple fact that Southampton have an unbelievable squad – one that is easily good enough to compete for a European spot next season.

Puel has built on excellent foundations laid by Ronald Koeman and Mauricio Pochettino, bringing players like Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to the club and Oriol Romeu into the first team fold – and Southampton’s squad is looking better for it.

Southampton’s first team squad is undoubtedly one of the best in the Premier League, and it is certainly one that is good enough to challenge for Premier League and European glory this season.

The season hasn’t started well – but Southampton’s outstanding squad is only just getting going.

Experience

Whilst Southampton have not been in the Premier League for a very long time; it is important to recognise that the Saints are not brand new to the league – and the trials and tribulations that come with it.

Returning to the Premier League in 2012, the club have learned what it takes to not only survive in the Premier League – but thrive too.

Last season was huge, and has given the club European football this year – a great reward for all their achievements in recent years.

Players like Jose Fonte have been with the club every step of the way, and they are no stranger to difficulty.

Likewise, Claude Puel is a very experienced manager – and whilst he is new to the Southampton hot seat, he knows exactly what it takes to build a successful side.

Southampton have everything they need to make the top 6 this year.

Commitment

This is a trait that cannot be undervalued.

The Southampton board in recent years have proven in recent years that they are committed to their club and their staff.

Managers have come under difficulty in recent years, and the club owners have always stood by them – and it has normally worked out to their benefit.

Puel, like Koeman before him, and Pochettino before that – will be given a chance.

Likewise, the players are committed – and that should help the manager in the long-term.

Give him time, and he will succeed.