Claude Puel has refused to rule out the possibility of dipping into the transfer market again before the close of the window.

Saints completed a double swoop for Alex McCarthy and Jeremy Pied on Monday, to make it four new faces at St Mary’s this summer.

Though their captures mean that the squad is pretty much complete, Puel insisted that, while he is happy with what he’s got, Saints will not be afraid to make another swoop if the right deal comes along.

He said: “You cannot be sure because the window is open until August 31. We will see if there is an opportunity or not.

“I enjoy my squad, my players, I think you have a good possibilities to make a good championship, we will see after the first game.

“I think the squad is very competitive, with quality in every place.”

Puel made it clear that at this stage he would be content if there were no further additions having been impressed by what he has found since arriving, and with the mind-set that he wants to work within the club’s philosophy.

“It’s important to respect the strategy of the club,” said Puel.

“Southampton don’t have the same possibility of other great clubs. They don’t have the same money.

“It’s important that the club of Southampton will be respected because young players in the academy are important for Southampton.

“Also a player like Nathan Redmond is as very very good player. Perhaps the fans don’t know him very well – he is a fantastic player - he played at Norwich. He played always wide and I think he is a very very good striker.

“I think also there are many players with very good technique, very good spirit and it’s important to improve a good collective and a good understanding between the players.

“You cannot have the same players as the great teams – it’s important to respect this – and to work together and to give pleasure to the fans of course.”

Puel was also keen to emphasise his belief in bringing through young players, something with which the club and its fans take great pride.

He took a number of up and coming talents away with him on the trips to America and Holland and has been able to assess the potential.

“It was important to see the players, to see them and to have a good idea of the level of everyone,” he admitted.

“I think there are differences between the senior and young players – it’s normal. It’s important to consider them and work with them. I hope it can give service for the squad.

“The squad is not full of a lot of players. It’s important to have a good squad and good players near for the next game.”

  • Claude Puel has promised Saints fans a team that will enjoy themselves and entertain supporters.

In his first major interview since taking over at St Mary’s, Puel opened up on his past, his views on the current Saints squad and his hopes and ambitions for the future.

The Frenchman insists he will be keen to promote young players while striving to maintain forward momentum in both the Premier League and the Europa League, and to play a style of football that will bring pleasure to fans.

Read more tomorrow in the Daily Echo.