January just the ticket for Southampton

When the January transfer window opened, Ronald Koeman declared that he was in the market for just one player and that none of the Dutchman’s first team players would be leaving the club.

Fast-forward to February and the Saints boss’ word has proven to be the truth. Victor Wanyama and Sadio Mané - both of whom were subject to speculation - have remained at the club without any notable uproar.

Koeman was committed to bring a new attacking player into the equation, and has done so with the £4m addition of former Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin.

Austin’s transfer was immediately vindicated - as if it was required - when the 26-year-old emerged from the bench at Old Trafford on his debut.

He was given just 12 minutes of normal time to make an impact, and netted in the 88th minute to secure a 1-0 win for his new employers.

At the time of writing - February the 9th - Koeman’s men have embarked on a five-game run of clean sheets, boasting four victories and one draw to move back into continental contention.

Saturday’s win over West Ham United has the feel of a landmark success, as Saints closed the gap on their European rivals - who occupy 6th position - to just two points.

With the return of Fraser Forster, Steven Davis and Graziano Pellè from injury, Saints fans have plenty to be optimistic about.

Couple that with the scheduled return of Jay Rodriguez later this month and Florin Gardos’ continued recovery, and all the stars are beginning to align for another push for European football next season.

After such a disappointing spell in the Europa League in 2015, the business conducted - and in some cases not conducted - in early 2016 could prove to book Saints fans flights for another European adventure.