Southampton captain Jose Fonte was bullish regarding his side's chances of progressing through the Europa League qualification play-off round.

Following their 5-0 aggregate victory over Vitesse in the third round of the UEFA Europa League qualifiers, Southampton are now just one step away from earning a berth in the group stage proper of Europe's second tier club competition.

The Saints now await the identity of their next opponent and despite the potential of coming up against a tough side, Fonte is feeling extremely confident.

Fonte said: "No, whoever.

"As long as it's not a six or seven hour journey. Maybe Portugal, maybe a Portuguese team would be nice."

He added: "It doesn't matter. The manager has enough experience to know how to approach these games and we are mature players.

"We know it's important not to concede, and try and nick a goal away from home to give us the advantage. Whatever comes, it comes."