Wanyama backs former club Southampton to 'build on this season'

Cult hero Wanyama - the muscle of the midfield that qualified Saints for Europe - has given his verdict on Russell Martin's charges. 

Wanyama made 97 appearances for Saints between 2013 and 2016, after signing from Scottish champions Celtic.

The former Kenya international has backed his old side to keep improving after following their progress in the Championship.

Speaking to Responsible Gambling, Wanyama said: "It's been a long season for them and I have been following them. 

Victor Wanyama signed for Spurs in 2016 for more than £12million

"I love my time at Southampton and I still keep in touch with some people there so I will always wish them the very best of everything.

"I think they can build on this season. They have young players who have a lot of potential and are stars of the future."

Wanyama became the first Kenyan to play in the Premier League when he made his debut in a 1-0 win at West Brom in August 2013.

He became the first Kenyan to score with a late winner at Swansea in September 2014, later scoring from the halfway line against Hull City.

"I think that as a Kenyan it is one of my proudest moments," Wanyama reflected.

"The fact that I was the first to show that people from my country could compete makes me so proud.

"There are a lot of talented Kenyans out there but when we get to Europe we just don't play for ourselves and our families.

"We have to always remember that we are playing for the next generation and how we carry ourselves will go a long way in putting trust on the next ones."