Southampton attacker Theo Walcott is delighted to see the club top of the table after victory over Newcastle United.

Moved more central to fill the role left by the injured Danny Ings, Walcott took the change of position into his stride from the off; assisting Ché Adams after just seven minutes with a well struck, low cross.

Saints sealed the result after a dominant display eight minutes from time; Stuart Armstrong letting fly from the edge of the box and finding the bottom corner.

Making it two assists in three games, Walcott was understandably in high spirits after an historic evening for both himself and the club:

“To be top of the league as well, for the first time in the club's history, it's a great thing to be a part of.

“It's just a shame the fans can't be here to enjoy it with us at this moment in time but I'm sure they're enjoying it at home.

“Every time I put on the shirt I just feel like a kid. It brings back so many great memories. I've had so many great experiences over the years but there's just something about this club.

“I'm really pleased to be part of this group at this moment in time. We've just got to keep working hard.

“I feel like I'm expressing myself and really enjoying myself. The manager has got a lot of faith in not just me but the whole team. He wants the team to do well and he's got an interest in everyone and the players feed off of that.

“We work hard together. Walking over that white line? It was a special moment. It's a shame people couldn't be here today but obviously that's just how it is at the moment in time. The players have got used to it but hopefully it changes soon.

“Hopefully everyone at home can enjoy us being top of the league because that's a great thing to say."