Ronald Koeman says that Saturday’s clash with West Brom may provide an even more difficult challenge than the trip to Liverpool, because of the expectation on Saints.

After Sunday’s valiant display in a 2-1 defeat at Anfield, Koeman’s side return to action this weekend for their opening home match of the Premier League season.

Saints will start the game as favourites, against a West Brom team that many have tipped to struggle this term.

Koeman, who explained that confidence is high after the performance at Liverpool, wants his side to dominate the Baggies even more than they did the Reds.

However, he is expecting Alan Irvine's men to pose a tough test.

“It was frustrating, but that was Sunday and Monday,” he said, reflecting on the Liverpool game.

“Two days is normal, because I think we played on a good level. We played an amazing second half, but the result was not what we deserved.

“But I think that was good for the confidence, because maybe everybody was a little bit afraid how Southampton would start the season, even against a team as big as Liverpool is, but we showed our qualities and we showed we are a team who can be very competitive to everybody.

“Ok, we know for this Saturday it will be a different one – maybe more difficult, because everyone expects the same level and we play at home and we have to dominate it more than we did against Liverpool, but I think the belief is in the team, the belief is in the players and we look forward for Saturday.”