Jose Fonte has been described as the best defender in the Premier League right now by Saints legend Terry Paine.

Fonte has been an immense presence at the heart of the team’s backline this season, with his performances and influence a key part of their success.

The centre-half and captain, who has become a senior Portugal international during the current campaign, has been integral to a Saints side that possess the best defence in the top-flight.

Ronald Koeman’s men have conceded just 16 goals in the Premier League – three fewer than anyone else – while Fraser Forster has kept ten clean sheets.

Saints have been particularly impressive defensively in recent weeks, keeping out both Arsenal and Manchester United, while restricting Chelsea to one shot on target in their 1-1 draw with the leaders at St Mary’s.

Fonte, who faces a reunion with former team Crystal Palace in the FA Cup fourth round tomorrow, has been exceptional during those games.

Paine enthused: “Jose has been absolutely brilliant.

“When you consider where he’s come from, and to play for his country as well, it’s magnificent.

“For me, at the moment, he’s by far the best defender in the Premier League.

“I’ve already earmarked him for my team of the season, as well as Nathaniel Clyne, and I haven’t finished there – there’s a few others to consider as well.”

Paine, the club’s honorary president, has been hugely impressed with the team’s resolve under manager Ronald Koeman’s guidance.

“Defensively, we are three goals better off than any other side – it’s been absolutely brilliant.

“I’m so impressed with the organisation at the back. It seems that every cross that comes in there’s a Southampton player positioned perfectly to deal with it.

“I know that’s over-exaggerating it, but that’s the impression they give.”

Paine also had praise for Florin Gardos, who has started recently with Toby Alderweireld injured and Maya Yoshida on international duty with Japan in the Asian Cup.

“Gardos has been thrown in at the deep end a little bit, with Alderweireld, who has been brilliant, injured and Yoshida away with Japan,” said Paine.

“That’s left us a bit short, but he has done well.”