Ronald Koeman aiming for European spot

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has acknowledged that he may struggle to keep some of his players at the club if they don't secure European football for next season.

The Saints currently sit in fourth position in the standings after an impressive first half to the campaign, but as Koeman looks to avoid another exodus from St Mary's, he admits that a top-six finish could be key if they are to build for the future.

The 51-year-old is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: "It will be maybe easier for us if we play in European Cup football to keep the players.

"I know the situation. We are Southampton and if we are doing well, there is always interest in our players. It is down to the success of the club, and it's good.

"I think these players would like to play in European Cup football and that they would like to play Champions League football. That is always maybe an important reason for a player to stay or not to stay."

Southampton travel to Loftus Road to play Queens Park Rangers on Saturday afternoon.