Can Koeman and Southampton squad cope with Europa League campaign?

At least Graziano Pelle’s form has continued from his maiden campaign up front, with three goals from six outings so far during his second season at Southampton. The late-blooming Italy international remains a potent threat that must be taken seriously by opposition defenders.

Perhaps at present defensive areas could be stronger, but there is international class and real strength in depth to the Saints attack. Joining Azzurri man Pelle is Republic of Ireland counterpart Shane Long and England cap Jay Rodriguez from the British isles; plus Spain starlet Juanmi and Serbia’s Dusan Tadic from further afield.

Competition for forward places shall only spur Southampton on and the goals should some come in Premier League action, especially when deep-lying playmaker Clasie returns and if academy graduate James Ward-Prowse sees his development continue in midfield.

Balancing campaigns at home and abroad is a challenge that elite coaches rise to; nobody pretends it is easy. Saints boss Koeman has the playing credentials, having fired Barcelona to victory in the 1992 European Cup final, but must now try to cope in the dugout.

With the pulling power and financial muscle of clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool and Man Utd, who have all nabbed Southampton stars in recent seasons; plus Man City and Chelsea virtually certain to finish ahead of them, taking the Europa League seriously offers an alternative route to Europe’s top table for the winners.

Saints are 25/1 to take that title and get among the Champions League elite in 2016/17, but should target this back-door route and plot progress towards it unlike West Ham United, who seemed prepared to sacrifice any shot at a continental crown in order pursue domestic improvement. Like any juggler, Koeman will find practice makes perfect.