GORDON STRACHAN has played down talk of Saints qualifying for Europe.

Saturday's 2-1 win against Sunderland left them seventh, just six points off second place and well in the mix for a lucrative European spot.

But while jubilant Saints fans were singing 'we're all going on a European tour', Strachan cautiously joked: "I'm off to La Manga in June."

The Saints boss was delighted with the victory and did admit he always thought his players were good enough to perform as they have this season.

"We will now just try and catch the team in front of us. That's our objective, it's as simple as that," he said.

"The players were excellent everywhere and it's not just down to luck that we've done we've done. It's good to get to New Year unbeaten at home.

"That's been good for us and we're proud of that.

"We've not got too big a squad and everyone involved has added their bit. They're a good bunch to work with.

"I knew they were capable of doing what they've done and I imagined after six months here that we could get to this position.

"It is what I expected if we played to our potential, but there is a difference between expecting to play to your potential and actually doing it."

After conceding late goals to Tottenham, Bolton and Blackburn, Strachan believes Saints have got their rewards after clinching five extra points in recent weeks with last-minute strikes against West Ham, Leeds and now Sunderland.

"Three times we have been hit by injury time goals, so we've got the three back now. It just shows it's swings and roundabouts if you keep working hard enough," he said.

Strachan was especially pleased with how his players responded after the gruelling goalless draw at title-chasing Chelsea on Boxing Day.

"We had the heavy stuff at Stamford Bridge and it was a slog. Today I thought we showed good fitness at the end," he said.

"The game was a battle, but I asked them to remember to play as well.

"We were too predictable for a while and I wanted more variation from the players, but we'll work on that."

Rory Delap was again outstanding in Saints' central midfield and Strachan added: "Delap was phenomenal, he is putting in some performances at the moment.

"He goes back and forward and can do anything."

Top scorer James Beattie had headed Saints in front with his 12th Premiership goal of the season after firing blanks in his previous three outings.

"James Beattie's general hold-up play has been his best in the last few games. Today it was not quite so good, but he got a goal," said Strachan.