Hoedt: “We have to do our part”

After over 4,000 Southampton fans ventured north to witness their team secure a place in the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals just under a fortnight ago, Mark Hughes’s men will be roared on by a sell-out away following once more at the London Stadium against West Ham.

And, with just eight Premier League games remaining and the feeling of a second wind under Hughes, Hoedt is eager to begin repaying the faith this weekend.

“Supporters are always really important but we always have to be aware that we have to give something back,” he said. “That’s up to us: they do their part and we have to do ours, to fight and play good football.

“Pulling together is the most important thing. I heard Charlie saying it as well, to put our minds all in the same direction, it’s the only thing we can do. If the fans are there and supporting us we have to give them something back by winning for them.”

Further echoing the words of his Saints colleague, the Dutch defender has seen a positive influence in Staplewood since the arrival of Hughes and his coaching team, the first signs of which were shown in the second half at Wigan.

“He’s really straightforward and clear with the things he wants so that’s really good. We all have to work as hard as we can and show that we want to play and fight for this club.

“We had a great start under the new coach at Wigan; we suffered in the first half but showed good character to come back in the second. 

“We have to build from there, work hard and prepare this week because it’s a final on Saturday."

That process begins in the capital in two days’ time; eight games to go, 24 points to play for.

“This is a new experience for me and it can help you grow as a player but only if we get out of it successful and get the wins we need in the final eight matches. In the Premier League, we have something to make right.”