Ralph Hasenhuttl has brought some excitement back to Southampton since he replaced Mark Hughes as manager.

Under the Austrian, the Saints have started to play a more entertaining brand of football again, much to the delight of supporters.

That, however, is not the only thing Hasenhuttl has introduced, according to central defender Jannik Vestergaard.

The Breakdown

"We are a lot more organised and everyone knows what to do," the Denmark international was quoted as saying by the Daily Echo.

"That gives you confidence when you do better and when you suddenly win games and you make it tough for even very good opponents - top-six teams.

"I think just by that he [Hasenhuttl] has given us some confidence. We’ve come a long way also mentally. I don’t think we are as vulnerable as we may have been earlier on in the season."

A lot has been said about how well Southampton have pressed and attacked under Hasenhuttl -- and rightly so.

In those departments, they look a completely different outfit to the one Hughes was managing.

But as Vestergaard has highlighted, they have also come a long way defensively. Even in games against the Premier League top six, the Saints have managed to defend well with their solid display in a 0-0 draw against Chelsea epitomising that.

When you consider the fact that Hasenhuttl is also now getting a lot from his midfield as well, it is some job the former RB Leipzig manager is ultimately doing at St. Mary's.

A good transfer window in the summer, and the Saints could be in for a really bright 2019/20 season under their new boss.

Southampton fans, do you agree with Vestergaard's assessment? Join the discussion by commenting below.