'Think positive' - Juric not despondent despite Boxing Day defeat

Southampton manager Ivan Juric has seen reasons to be positive about his team from his first two matches in charge.

The Saints followed Sunday's 0-0 draw at Fulham with a 1-0 home loss to West Ham on Boxing Day, meaning Saints are nine points from safety in the Premier League.

"I knew before that I arrived here it would be very difficult but watching these two games, I think we have to be positive and think positive," the former Roma boss said.

"Against Fulham, we were tough. We were the better team [against West Ham] and we have to be positive and try at Crystal Palace."

Meanwhile, Juric says Germany international defender Armel Bella-Kotchap could still have a role to play at St Mary's Stadium.

Having spent last season on loan at PSV Eindhoven, Bella-Kotchap has made only one appearance for Saints this season in the Carabao Cup.

Juric said: "I saw him playing here two years ago and he was incredible for me. He started to play in the German national team and he has the potential.

"Now it is about him. I said to him to work really, really hard and we will see in a few weeks if he will be ready.

"I think Southampton needs him and we willhelp to give him a chance. Now it is only on him and if he wants it."