Goalkeeper Antti Niemi has hailed manager Gordon Strachan for the role he has played in turning Southampton into contenders for a place in Europe next season.

Strachan has transformed the south coast side's fortunes in the space of just 15 months after taking over from Stuart Gray in October 2001.

Southampton lie sixth in the Premiership table and are unbeaten in their last nine matches as they prepare for their visit to The Riverside Stadium today to face Middlesbrough - the only other team unbeaten at home this season.

Niemi said: "Gordon gives everything. He is respected by everyone and it's easy to see why.

"He's very approachable and has a good sense of humour, which is probably his best asset apart from his vast knowledge of football.

"During a training session, he doesn't say too much except if someone makes a mistake or does something good - but you always want to do your best for him.

"He's fine if a player makes an honest mistake but what he does expect all the time is 100 per cent, and that's what he's been getting from everyone.

"I remember him as a player, and he was probably much the same on the pitch as he is as a manager, giving everything.''

Niemi, pictured right, has become an important part of Strachan's plans since his £2m move from Hearts last August and revealed the squad are full of confidence after their 4-0 rout of Spurs in the FA Cup last week.

The Finland international added: "That was probably the best we've played since I came to the club, and I only had one save to make.

"Many people are surprised at how well we have done this season.

"But we know we have to continue the good form, because two or three defeats can leave you in 14th place or something like that.''

Saints are expected to include Argentinian winger Federico Arias in their squad following his £500,000 move from Velez Sarsfield in midweek.

Midfielder Chris Marsden is confident of overcoming a hamstring injury, while striker Agustin Delgado is in contention for a place after a month out with a back injury.

But captain Jason Dodd is still missing with a calf problem, while last season's leading scorer Marian Pahars is out for a further six weeks after undergoing surgery on a long-term ankle injury.