Ronald Koeman hopes Southampton can achieve Europe "ambition"

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has claimed that he and the team still hold the "ambition" of securing a place in Europe for next season.

The Saints are currently sixth in the Premier League table, just one point behind fifth-placed Manchester United and seven off a Champions League spot.

In the league, Koeman's side are unbeaten in their last six games and they will try to extend that run when they welcome Chelsea to St Mary's on Saturday.

"No [we haven't mentioned the Champions League], but we have to achieve our objectives," Koeman said in Thursday's press conference.

"We played in Europe last season and that is our ambition. It is not about needing to finish fifth. Football is difficult and we enjoy the moment of the season but after a good run it is difficult to continue and we have a tough one this Saturday."

Southampton secured a 3-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in October.