Southampton striker Shane Long was delighted to score in their 2-0 defeat of Aston Villa.

The Irishman was still yet to score this season at the turn of the year, but now has three goals in his last six games after breaking the deadlock in the 2-0 win over Aston Villa at St Mary's.

Long prides himself on putting the team first, but admits it's nice to hit a purple patch in front of goal – just as he did towards the end of last season.

“I feel like I've been playing well lately and it's nice to get a few goals to back that up," he said.

“The three points are massive for us as a team. We had to dig deep and push hard because Villa are a very good side.

“Being 1-0 up in the last minute, it's always a bit risky, but the guys at the back did really well to keep a clean sheet and it was nice for Stu to get the goal at the end.

“Although it was a bit nervous, the fans got right behind us and tried to cheer us over the line.

“It was nice to give them a 2-0 win and a clean sheet – that's something to be proud of."