Southampton midfielder Steven Davis feels that the current first-team squad at St Mary's is the best that they have had since he joined the club.

The Northern Ireland captain signed for the Saints in 2012 and despite the numerous departures over the past two seasons, Davis feels that the team have benefited from the added competition for places.

When asked if this was the strongest Southampton squad since their promotion back to the Premier League, the 30-year-old told the Southern Daily Echo: "As a squad, I think yes.

"Obviously we've lost some important players over the years and Morgan [Schneiderlin] again this year and Clyney [Nathaniel Clyne].

"There are people who have done a great job for the club over a number of years, so if you look at competition for places now within the squad, it's really healthy. It's arguably the best squad since I've been here."

Davis has made seven appearances for Ronald Koeman's men this season after making over 30 in all of his last three seasons with the club.