Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl insists he's been happy with on-loan Liverpool attacker Takumi Minamino.

Minamino has experienced more inconsistency during his time with the Saints, scoring twice in his first two appearances for the club before a loss of form.

But asked why Minamino's move hadn't quite worked out after another difficult afternoon against Fulham, Hasenhuttl gave a somewhat surprising answer, instead saying he was happy with what he's seen from the Liverpool attacker.

"I must say, I was not unhappy with him," he said. "The first half, he was good. The second half, you could see that it was his second game in four or five days.

"He hasn't played so much in the past so it is normal that you then have a few moments where you struggle. He worked hard against the ball.

He added: "I like this player. He has some very good movements and is enjoying his work, I think, also."