Southampton manager, Claude Puel, has praised his players after they met one of their objectives for theseason by reaching the semi-finals of the EFL cup.
The Saints surprised a lacklustre Arsenal side on Wednesday evening, as goals from Jordy Clasie and Ryan Bertrand helped them to a comfortable 2-0 win at the Emirates stadium. The victory means that Southampton have made it through to the semi-finals of the league cup for the first time since 1987.
FULL TIME: #Arsenal 0-2 #SaintsFC
They've done it! Claude Puel's side are into the semi-finals of the #EFLCup!  pic.twitter.com/0C8qqgCYEu
Speaking after the match in hispress conference, Claude Puelsaid hewas delighted with his team's performance, especially asthe clubhad been targeting a place in the semis.
The Frenchman said:I enjoy this win for all of the squad and for the fans, because it's a good answer to keep all of our possibilities in every competition.
It was an objective of the team to qualify for the semi-finals after the winter. It was a strong game, with good solidarity. We moved the team at the start with different players and the answer from them was fantastic.
We played a very good game and to qualify for the next round is very important. We now get to play in a semi-final and that's great for the players.�
Despite the accomplished performance at the Emirates, the Saints' boss asked his players to remain grounded and to focus on winning their next match -a trip to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
Puel added:We will see for the future of the competition, but for now we have no time to be satisfied and happy because it's important to keep concentration for next game.
It's important to make a good result in the Premier League and then we have a very important final game in the Europa League. We have to keep the good feeling.�
Southampton will now face Liverpool in the EFL cup semi-finals in the new year. Puel's team will host the first leg the week commencing the 9th of January, before travelling to Anfield a fortnight later for the second match.
BREAKING: EFL Cup Draw.
Manchester United v Hull.
Southampton v Liverpool.
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