Claude Puel has admitted that Southampton found things "difficult" against Sparta Prague, but is not giving up hope that his side can still get the job done on home soil.

The Saints fell to a 1-0 reverse in the Czech Republic, leaving their Europa League aspirations hanging in the balance as they now face Hapoel Be'er Sheva in a straight shootout early next month.

A stunning comeback victory for the Israeli side against Inter Milan elsewhere on Thursday night means that Southampton must now quickly pick themselves back up, with the two teams level on seven points in Group K heading into the final round of fixtures, and Puel is also hopeful that there will be no hangover looking ahead to his side's upcoming domestic fixtures.

"The first half was a good level with chances without being clinical," he told BT Sport. "It's a problem for us in this game. The second half was difficult. The pitch was difficult to play on and find a solution. It's a frustration of course.

"Nothing is finished. It's important to keep the idea clear because we have our future in our hands. The last game is the final of the group at home in front of our fans which is very important. Now it's important to recover after this game on this difficult pitch and think of Everton."

Following Sunday's visit of Everton, Southampton turn attention to games against Arsenal and Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup and Premier League respectively, before the December 8 clash with Be'er Sheva.