Ronald Koeman has insisted that he has "total confidence" in Graziano Pelle, despite the striker having failed to score in the last six games.
The Italian's last Premier League goal came during the team's 8-0 thrashing of Sunderland in October, leaving him on six for the season since joining in the summer.
The manager told reporters: "I think our opponents are analysing our attacking players more. Maybe they have better defending against Graziano but we had more problems creating opportunities.
"Both are reasons why Pelle has not been scoring in last few games, it was the same at the start of the season. I have total confidence in the player. Our focus has to be about the way of playing, if we have quality possession we'll have chances to win.
"I believe in a way of playing and that's the most important. I am not focused on the position of the table, more focused on the way of playing."
Southampton host Manchester United on Monday.
Sian Cowper
