Mark Hughes reportedly has growing support from his players to stay on as Southampton manager even if the club drop out of the Premier League.

The Saints' top-flight fate is hanging in the balance heading into their final two matches of the season, beginning with a trip to Swansea City - the side directly below them in the table - on Tuesday night.

Hughes was appointed in March on a short-term deal that will expire later this month, winning just one of his seven league games in charge during that time.

According to The Telegraph, however, the Welshman has galvanised the squad and club chiefs are happy with the improvement in performances since Mauricio Pellegrino was sacked.

The report suggests that Hughes may therefore be offered the chance to stay on regardless of which division Southampton are in next term.