Hughes urges Southampton fans to get behind Redmond

Though Redmond is undoubtedly talented, his inability to string together consistent performance levels has frustrated the 'Saints' faithful of late.

However, his manager has jumped to his defence, insisting that the former Birmingham man needs encouragement to perform to his best.

"Maybe the frustration fans have had with Nathan he has at times had with his own game," Hughes explained.

"It will always be linked with confidence. Certain players need to have the confidence that managers and coaches and fans are with them to enable them to perform.

"He has the ability to go past players. Every team needs that type of player, at least one and maybe even two or three. A player that can change the game in your favour

"You have to have players like Redders who have that little bit of stardust to be able to make the difference."

A one-time England international, Redmond was a bright spot in the goalless draw with Burnley last weekend and Hughes says the 24-year-old has been looking sharp during pre-season.

"Nathan has come back really sharp, really strong, really focused on what he wanted to do this year," he enthused.

"At times, even last year in games towards the end, his decision making - when to take people on and when to retain possession - was in need of bettering, but he looks a lot more positive and has more confidence.

"To me that's the key to Nathan. When he plays well it's a result of the confidence he's got."