RALPH Hasenhuttl believes the international break provided his players the chance to regain their confidence.

Before the Premier League came to a halt, Saints had lost four games in a row – their last victory coming against Pompey in the Carabao Cup.

However, Hasenhuttl was able to spend time with his players over the last 10 days, which included playing a friendly with Brentford behind closed doors.

Speaking about the break, Saints’ boss said: “We had an intense week with a game against Brentford, which was a good test for us.

“We tried to go back to our basic fundamentals which is good for the players. We worked very hard and tried to show them how it can work.

“We had a good atmosphere in the sessions and in the game.

“The guys are following well, and that’s exactly what we need. Especially against big opponents because you have nothing to lose.

“You have to be brave in the game and believe in yourself because that gives you a good chance to get something, and that’s something we will have to do at the weekend.”

After playing Arsenal, Saints have a run of games that are in and around them in the Premier League table.

Despite this, Hasenhuttl isn’t overlooking their tie with the Gunners.

In the same fixture last season Saints were beaten 2-0, which was mainly down to a poor start to the match.

They fought their way back during the second half but were unable to find a breakthrough.

However, Arsenal have been struggling this season, with it also being suggested that manager Unai Emery is under increasing pressure.

Because of this, Hasenhuttl wants Saints to start fast and put the pressure on at the Emirates Stadium.

He added: “They are a team that is also struggling a little bit.

“At home they are strong. Last season we played a good second half, but the first half wasn’t so good.

“We must start better than last time there because we made two mistakes that led to goals, so we need to do that better.”