The Southampton boss Ronald Koeman is hoping that the large number of supporters that are making their way to Bramall Lane to watch the Saints play in the Cup fixture versus Sheffield United get their reward.

More than four thousand supporters of Southampton FC are believed to go to that game.

According to Koeman, such big home support at an away ground would be a motivating factor for his boys.

Speaking ahead of the game, the Dutchman said, “It’s a long way away from home. But, still for people to travel and support and especially at a time when we have not been playing particularly well, it’s fantastic and we heartily appreciate that.”

“It’s certainly going to be a motivation. Such fans deserve to get something to cheer about.”

After maintaining the second position in the Premier League table for good 4-5 weeks, the Saints have lost the plot a little bit. They have had to counter some strong teams of late yes, but, they have not shown enough fight.

And, to add insult to injury, they even lost to Burnley the other day to slip out of top 4 in the league table. However, what’s good for them is that they can make people forget that defeat if they thrash Sheffield in this much important game tomorrow.

When Koeman was asked if this is the perfect chance for his team to put that Burnley disappointment aside, he said, “Yes. After a disappointing game, you want the next game to come as quickly as possible and the same has happened here. But, Sheffield is not going to let us breathe easy. They will be very positive and will attack in their conditions.”

If Southampton beats Sheffield, they will go to the Round of 4.