MANAGER Russell Martin believes Saints have taken a lot of "heart" from their 3-1 defeat at Arsenal ahead of facing Leicester on Saturday.

Saints were beaten by Premier League title contenders Arsenal in their final game before the international break, despite taking the lead.

Cameron Archer had fired them in front before Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka launched a three-goal reply to turn the game around.

Martin's side face a different challenge in Leicester this weekend in a game much more likely to define their season.

Foxes boss Steve Cooper demanded his side become "obsessed" with beating Southampton after they secured their first victory of the season against AFC Bournemouth.

Russell Martin at St Mary'sRussell Martin at St Mary's (Image: PA) Saints, like most clubs, have worked with reduced numbers in training this past week due to several players departing for international duty.

However, Martin is pleased with what he has seen from his players ahead of hosting fellow recently promoted side Leicester.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, he said: “We haven’t got as many players away this time around which is good. We had a practice match at the training ground which was really good.

"I think we have taken a lot of heart, encouragement and belief from the Arsenal performance. I’m really excited about the Leicester game.”

Southampton host Leicester on Saturday, October 19 in a 3:00pm kick-off at St Mary's. They were twice beaten by Enzo Maresca's Foxes in the Championship last season.