BOSS Ralph Hasenhuttl insisted tomorrow’s return of fans to St Mary’s will be “an amazing atmosphere” as Saints end their home schedule against Leeds United. The south coast side will welcome back 8,000 of their supporters to the ground following the easing of the government’s coronavirus restrictions. Saints last had fans in attendance back in December when the government’s COVID-19 tier system was in place. But following another national lockdown, Hasenhuttl expressed his emotion when asked what it would be like to have live spectators returning.
Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “There is no question that football is nothing without fans. I mean it was too long now missing them and we are really absolutely happy that we get 8,000 now. It will be an amazing atmosphere I think because 8,000 is huge, a huge number, because I think last time we had 2,000 and there was also a very good feeling. So 8,000 will be massive for us and a good first step, so as not to overload us with emotions, I think. This is a special moment for every player, I think, and especially when you start it with a home game I think it can definitely push you, yes.”
Saints were beaten 3-0 by Leeds when they travelled to Elland Road back in February. Second-half goals from Patrick Bamford, Stuart Dallas and Raphinha paved the way for Marcelo Bielsa’s troops. But Hasenhuttl, whose side overcame Sheffield United in front of their supporters earlier this season, would love to reward the Saints faithful with another success.
Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “It was also against Sheffield when we won at home 3-0, it was an amazing moment for us. It’s a completely different situation if you win a game and celebrate together with the fans. It’s definitely something completely different. It will be also on the pitch be a different stressing situation because it’s louder, it’s noisier but I hope we get the support from them that helps us to be in the end physically stronger than the opponent. I think It’s important for us to show our better face in the final games of the season. That helps us definitely for maybe ending up in a position and also having a better pre-season.”
