HULL CITY v SOUTHAMPTON

2.15pm, KCOM Stadium

CLAUDE Puel is in no doubt Virgil van Dijk can develop into “one of the best defenders in the world”.

The Dutchman produced a dynamic display at the heart of the Saints backline against Inter Milan in the Europa League on Thursday night, scoring a fine goal during the second half as Puel’s side came from behind to secure a memorable 2-1 victory.

The 25-year-old former Celtic man has been called up again for the Netherlands over the international break.

Puel is in no doubt what Van Dijk can go on to achieve.

“I think Virgil, since the beginning of the season has made progress,” the Southampton manager said at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League trip to Hull.

“Virgil has improved both technically and tactically as well, in the duel he is fantastic.”

Saints head to the KCOM Stadium looking to recover from last weekend’s home defeat by Chelsea and remain in the top half of the Premier League table before the international break.

“Now we have to forget the game against Inter Milan, because this match is another important one for us at Hull,” the Southampton manager said on the club’s official website. “We have to make good concentration in this game, because in the Premier League we need the points.”