Optimism and belief are at the heart of Southampton FC supporters as the team makes its Premier League comeback.
The red and white army faced Nottingham Forest in their first home match of the season on Saturday.
Saints bounced back into the Premier League after an impressive Championship promotion play-off against Leeds United in May.
Sisters and long-time fans Michelle Carter and Karen Wallis were excited to see Saints in action at St Mary’s Stadium.
Michelle said: “We are so excited to be here. We live in Bedford and we drove four hours today to be here.
“The last time we were at St Mary’s was when Saints beat West Bromwich Albion, and everyone remembers that incredible atmosphere.
“We don’t want miracles; we would be quite happy to be 17th in the league.
“I have been a fan of Saints since I was 12 years old, and Karen came along with me as a fan.
“Saints were amazing when I watched them play Tottenham Hotspurs at that age, so that was it for me.”
Speaking on the team, Karen said: “We desperately need a new goalkeeper.
“McCarthy was great for us but he is getting on a bit now.
“We do need to bolster the back of the team moving forward.”
READ MORE: Premier League - Live updates: Saints and Forest search for opener at St Mary's
Despite Saints’ loss against Newcastle United last week, optimism was rife at St Mary’s.
Thousands of people flocked to the stadium for their beloved team’s return, many donning Saints kit.
Father and daughter Stephen and Emily Gilbert travelled from Crawley for Saturday’s match.
Stephen, who is a season ticket holder, said: “For the first home game of the season, I have optimism for Saints.
“We will start the day with a bit of enthusiasm along with optimism.
“Saints has made reasonably good signings this season, and at the end of the day we are always looking at the three worst teams in the league.
“We don’t know who that is yet, and Saints have a new team playing in the Premier league for the first time, so anything can happen.
“The only change we do need is to find a new goalkeeper.”
Saints lost 0-1 against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
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