Southampton striker Jay Rodriguez believes that manager Mauricio Pochettino has had a positive effect upon the team following his appointment as manager.

The Saints beat Liverpool 3-1 on Saturday, with the victory moving them up to 16th in the Premier League table, four points clear of the relegation zone.

Rodriguez has said that he is enjoying the greater freedom given to him since Pochettino replaced Nigel Adkins, who was controversially sacked in January.

"I've got a little bit more belief in myself and the gaffer, full credit to him, he's given me a bit of freedom to go and play and express myself," Goal.com quotes Rodriguez as saying.

"He's said that to everyone and you can see by the way we've played that he's had a massive effect on us. Everyone knows how to play - we're pressing high and don't give anyone respect.

"The belief we've got is fantastic and we've just got to carry it on."

Southampton host Chelsea on March 30.