Southampton legend Francis Benali fears for the club over next season's Europa League commitments.

Saints will qualify for European football for the first time in 12 years if Arsenal, having reached the Champions League, beat Aston Villa in today's FA Cup final.

Benali told the Daily Echo: "I must admit there's something inside me that's a little apprehensive about qualifying for the Europa League and the strain on the squad that that would bring.

"That's my concern. In some ways I'm all or nothing. The Champions League would be a massive step and a huge ask, but I would be more than delighted just to focus on another push for the top four next season.

"If we have to play in the Europa League next year so be it, we'll take that head on and enjoy the challenge.

"But I just wonder how well equipped we would be for it, with qualifying rounds being played in late July and early August.

"The squad is strong for domestic competition but we're faced with losing one or two players if the speculation is correct."