Southampton manager Nigel Adkins hailed the talents of Adam Lallana after the winger netted the winner in their 2-1 Carling Cup third-round victory over Preston.
The former England Under-21s international scored just 90 seconds after coming on after Adam Barton had cancelled out Jos Hooiveld's opener for the Saints at St. Mary’s.
"He is a class act and scored a great goal when the game was evenly poised. It was a great impact from a very talented player," said Adkins.
"It's a valuable victory. We were able to start ten different players and utilise our squad depth.
"We've got a tough week coming up with Burnley, Cardiff and Watford but there is a good unity in the squad and a growing competition for starting places, which is only a good thing to have."
Southampton currently top the Championship after picking up 18 points from their opening seven matches.
