Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier has hailed the form this season of Ronald Koeman's defence.
Such has been the form of Nathaniel Clyne, Manchester United have made him a transfer target.
And Le Tissier, 46, who made 540 appearances during a 17-year spell with Southampton, said: "The most consistent part of our team is the defence - Clyne and Ryan Bertrand are as good as any full-back pairing in the Premier League and all of the centre-backs have been brilliant.
"The most consistent part of the team is that back-line, very solid and organised.
"I've been very impressed by Koeman, he has been an absolute rock and didn't panic when the club lost the spine of the team.
"He went about his business very well and brought in some key players. The players certainly have a lot of respect for him as well.
"I don't see any reason at all why Southampton can't finish in the top four."
