Former Southampton defender Francis Benali has insisted that he is "optimistic" about the new summer signings Ronald Koeman has brought into the club.

Koeman has signed a number of players, including Ryan Bertrand, Fraser Forster, Florin Gardos, Shane Long, Graziano Pelle, Dusan Tadic and Saphir Taider.

Benali told Sky Sports News: "With Ronald Koeman's appointment and the players coming in and joining the club now I'm optimistic about the coming season.

"Especially on the back of the performance at Anfield last weekend."

Southampton take on West Bromwich Albion on Saturday afternoon at St Mary's Stadium.