Ronald Koeman is confident that his Southampton team can maintain their stellar form this season and secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.

The Saints battled to a 1-1 draw away to Aston Villa tonight as Koeman's side stay second in the table, six points behind Chelsea.

Despite the result, Southampton still boast a seven-point lead over Newcastle United in fifth, and the Dutch manager is optimistic that they can secure Champions League qualification come May.

"Yes I think it is possible. I don't see a lot of other teams that are better than Southampton," he told Sky Sports News after being asked if his troops could keep pace in the top-four race.

"We have to play better than tonight but everybody knows the Premier League is a battle every game and there are big teams who are struggling.

"If we keep going, keep the spirit and character in the team that we showed today, then I think it is possible."

Koeman's men face champions Manchester City on Sunday, before clashing with Arsenal and Manchester United in a stern run of fixtures for the top-four hopefuls.