Southampton striker Charlie Austin has admitted that his side need to "stick together" if they are to improve their Premier League form.

The Saints are currently 12th in the top flight but remain just three points above the relegation zone after only four wins from 18 games.

Austin has said that his side need to earn consistency in the Premier League, which has been lacking in Mauricio Pellegrino's results this term.

"We know we need to improve and a one-club mentality can be powerful for that," the Englishman told Southampton's club website. "We need to do better, we know that because as you look at the table we need to be higher up.

"It doesn't take long, if you put together a few wins then you can be pushed right up there. I know the fans will think 'people are always saying this', but we do need to stick together because it is really important.

"We need to get back to making St Mary's a fortress where teams come and they're worried, not coming to try and play their football. They need to worry about us and we know we've got quality in the team."

Southampton's next fixture is at St Mary's against Huddersfield Town, who were impressive away from home last time out against Watford.