SAINTS star Shane Long insists the players have to take the blame for the club’s predicament.

Supporters chanted for manager Mauricio Pellegrino’s dismissal after Crystal Palace’s 2-1 win at St Mary’s, Saints having led through Long’s first goal in 325 days.

Long said: “It is nice to get that goal but it counted for nothing in the end.

“In the second half Palace came at us. Naturally you drop off and try and hold onto your lead and that cost us.

“Confidence is low and the sooner the win comes the better.

“We know it is frustrating for the fans but we need them more than ever.

“It’s on the players heads as well. We cannot put it on the manager, everyone has to take a bit of the blame.”