Southampton must not lose their positivity and belief in the Premier League.

That is the opinion of Stuart Armstrong, who spoke after his side's 3-1 loss to Brighton on Boxing Day.

The Saints are working hard under new boss Nathan Jones, but they have a tall order to remain in the Premier League beyond this season.

“The Premier League is the hardest league in the world and it's definitely not easy, I've seen a lot of things now in my fifth season," the Scottish international told the Daily Echo.

“I've seen ups and downs and to lose our belief and positivity is the worst thing we can do. We know we are a capable group and it's all about gelling together, especially in the tough times."

Armstrong added: “I think we still have 20 or so more games to go so it's early days and we have to remain calm.

“It's so early in the season and as I have said before, in the next fixtures we're playing teams all around us and there is big points available."