Steven Davis says the onus is on Southampton to get back to scoring ways and secure all three points against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.
Saints have been unable to find the back of the net in their previous two games, against West Ham United and Liverpool at St Mary’s, as Ronald Koeman’s side have dropped to fifth in the table.
Having seen both of those sides soak up the pressure and take points away with them, Davis expects more of the same on Saturday, despite being the away side.
With Tony Pulis in charge and West Brom in good form themselves; Davis knows it won’t be easy at the Hawthorns.
“The performances have been good,” Davis told Southampton’s official YouTube channel. “We’ve just found it hard to put the ball in the back of the net recently.
“If we keep playing the way we are and creating chances, it’s only a matter of time before we start hitting the back of the net again.
“Maybe our good away form is down to the approach of the other teams. Away from home obviously the other team is at home and come out a little bit more, that gives us more space in behind.
“When teams come to St Mary’s they’ve been happy to sit in and make it difficult for us and then hit us on the break.
“We can expect more of the same at West Brom on Saturday. Under Tony Pulis they’ll be very organised and will make it difficult for you. We’re going to have to be ready for that and sharpen up in and around the box.
“Any time you play at Tony Pulis team or West Brom team, they’re going to be well organised. It’s important we move the ball as fast as possible and try to create good opportunities and be ruthless in the box.”
Saints face the Baggies on Saturday and then Crystal Palace at St Mary’s on Tuesday and Davis believes the two will be crucial in deciding where Koeman’s side finish this season.
Ten games will remain after the visit of Palace and Davis is also pleased to see key players coming back ahead of the final run-in.
“It’s a massive two games for us in terms of what way we want our season going,” Davis added. “If we pick up two good results it will put us in a good position and then we can try to kick on.
“If we don’t it’s going to be difficult. It’s a really important couple of games and we’re looking forward to them.
“It’s a good time to have almost a fully-fit squad. Obviously there are longer-term injuries but the ones more recently are coming back.
“It’s good to have everyone playing at a good level, pushing each other on to try and keep the shirt. It’s good for the manager to have everyone fit.”
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