SAINTS need “more leaders” on the field in 2013/14 if they are to live up to manager Mauricio Pochettino’s expectations of challenging for Europe.

That is the verdict of former Dell striker Gordon Watson in the wake of Saints spending over £30m last summer and finishing just five points off the drop zone.

Though they finished 14th, they had the same amount of points as 16th placed Newcastle.

“There were a lot of positives, but a few negatives too,” Watson summed up 2012/13.

“First of all, the team did superbly well to stay up – and that was mission accomplished.

“They finished 14th despite taking their foot off the gas when they appeared safe, and despite a terrible start.

“I will give some players the benefit of the doubt, because last season was their first in the Premier League.

“Some looked like they had a lot more to give, and they will need to give more next season as it will be a tougher season than last.

“The Saints players who impressed me last season?

“Morgan, Luke ... and Nathaniel Clyne got better and better when he wasn’t left isolated or exposed.

“Jack Cork gave us a lot of stability when he came back from injury, just by keeping it simple, keeping the ball moving.

“He was very mature and we missed him early on.

“The two full backs (Shaw and Clyne) could play at a bigger club.

“So could Jack Cork and Morgan.

“Southampton are a club massively on the up, but those two could play for a top eight, top ten club.

“Could Saints be that sort of club next season? Only time will tell.

“I know Pochettino has talked of trying to get into Europe, but if he can do that next season he will be a shoe-in for manager of the season.

“That’s how big an achievement it will be.

“We need more leaders next season on the pitch.

“Last season we had Rickie, we had Luke, we had Morgan and Jack. We need more.

“We need Jay Rodriguez to kick on, we need Adam (Lallana) to get through a season without an ankle injury, we need Jason Puncheon to become a leader – not just play well sporadically.”

Regarding former Burnley striker Rodriguez, Watson said: “The jury is still out on him.

“Yes, he looked fresh towards the end of last season, but that’s because he was fresh.

“I would like to see him hit the ground running next season, rather than doing well later in the season against teams who might not have the same intensity because they are safe.”