You could forgive a team languishing at the bottom of the Premier League, without a win and without a single point in nine games, if they allowed discord and division to take hold.

So, as the Saints entered their 10th league game, with pressure mounting for points and not just performances, it was almost unusual to see signs of unity permeating from within the club. Before the match, the players declared their love for Russell Martin.

Martin praised supportive owners. This indicates a culture of unison internally, even as opinions continue to be divided externally.

Yes, there is a long way to go if Southampton are to secure another season in the top flight. But they are much more likely to succeed if this culture persists.