Ronald Koeman: Southampton boss ruptures Achilles

Southampton may boast a convincing advantage against Vitesse Arnhem, but fiercely-competitive manager Ronald Koeman says it would be “crazy” to jeopardise their Europa League dream by fielding a weakened side.

The Dutchman, 52, suffered the injury during training and is a fitness doubt for the Saints’ Premier League opener against Newcastle on Sunday.

Fortunately for Saints, Koeman’s injury is their only fresh concern heading to St James’ Park – thanks in no small part to the fact the second leg often resembled an exhibition match after Pelle’s early strike.

“That meant that they had to make five goals, and that’s normally impossible – and it was impossible”.

He said: “I hope [it will be] a good game and for sure a game we will start with the same intensity as we did last week”. But with Saints captain and defensive organiser Jose Fonte alongside him and midfield shield Victor Wanayama in front of him, Caulker can look forward to a better season. It’s just one of those things.’ Of Koeman’s absence, he added: ‘I think some teams it may affect but we’re solid and focused on the job in hand’.

“We want to show respect but not to jeopardise the more important competition”.

The main moan came in the hours before kick-off in the centre of Arnhem, where police stormed in after glasses, chairs and punches were thrown.

The travelling Saints fans weren’t quiet either and in the 72nd minute they reserved one of their loudest cheers for the return of Jay Rodriguez after 16 months out injured.

“We are continuing to liaise with local police and will take relevant action against those involved”.

Southampton cruised through to the play-off round of the Europa League as goals at polar ends of normal time secured them a 2-0 win in the second leg of their tie against Vitesse, the score 5-0 on aggregate.

Some onlookers said a group of supporters of Feyenoord, who play in nearby Rotterdam, provoked Southampton supporters in the city square. I believed that we could go through with this team.