Koeman: European place would be ‘big achievement’

Matt Stead

Ronald Koeman says Southampton are still in the fight for Europe despite losing their last two Premier League matches.

The Saints went down 2-0 to south coast rivals Bournemouth on Tuesday, only three days after letting Chelsea to come from a goal behind to win.

However, Koeman is remaining upbeat over Southampton’s chances of qualifying for Europe this season and says doing so would be a fantastic accomplishment.

“The ambition is still fighting for Europe,” he said.

“Of course everybody needs a good run. We showed that before and after two defeats we need to win.

“It would be a big achievement because we are Southampton – we don’t have the possibilities like most of the teams.”

Meanwhile, Koeman has confirmed that Charlie Austin will miss three to four weeks with a hamstring injury.

According to the Dutchman Austin’s problem “wasn’t the worst hamstring injury”.