'I've explained to a few of them how big it is' - Stephens on derby

Southampton defender Jack Stephens has said he has spoken to some of his team-mates about the importance of Saints' rivalry with Portsmouth before Sunday's derby (12:00 BST) - the first league meeting between the clubs for 13 years.

Stephens told BBC Radio Solent: "I've only been involved as a player in one other South Coast derby so I'm really looking forward to this one.

"I'm hoping the fans can get behind us, which I'm sure they will be, because it's a big game for the club and the city. Hopefully we can get those three points."

He continued: "I think because it's been so long, there hasn't been much to see of it so for players that aren't used to it, they're not actually aware of how big the rivalry is.

"You see some of the other rivalries that happen quite often, you get a feel for it, but with this one it hasn't happened for a long time.

"I've explained to a few of them how big it is. We haven't prepared any differently for this one, which I think is the right way to go about it."

The two sides have met just once in the past decade, with Saints winning 4-0 at Fratton Park in a League Cup tie in 2019.

Stephens revealed some of the methods that the club have used to emphasise the size of the occasion, adding: "We've got Matt Le Tissier and Francis Benali coming in to speak to us, so that'll be massive for the group, and it'll be really good to see them. They can give their experiences and what they've been through with the club.

"I think they've been in a few (derbies) themselves so it'll be good for everyone, but especially the new lads that have come in to really get a feel for it."

On the prospect of leading Saints out against Portsmouth as club captain, Stephens said: "It's another proud moment. I've always said that leading the team out is the proudest moment of my career every time I do it.

"Obviously this one is going to be extra special because it's a local derby, a derby that hasn't happened in a long time, so there's a lot of excitement for me personally.

"I'm trying to keep calm and keep everyone else calm and hopefully we get the right result."