NATHAN Jones was defiant during questioning over the potential of Che Adams and when asked if he can improve the striker, he responded: “I know I can.”

The new Saints boss was pleased with the learning experience of his first match in charge, despite an eventual 3-1 defeat to recent Premier League and Champions League champions Liverpool.

Adams scored the first goal of the Welshman’s tenure, equalising just seconds after Roberto Firmino had opened at Anfield.

It was the forward’s fourth Premier League notch of the campaign but he has come under fire for missing simple chances week after week, ultimately leading to the downfall of former boss Ralph Hasenhuttl. 

Jones, however, insists Adams will only flourish under his management.

"Every striker I've worked with has scored goals at whatever level. When I worked at Brighton I did the same and strikers got moves,” he said.

“(Leonardo) Ulloa, people like that. Ashley Barnes too got a move. The ones I had at Luton have all scored goals and have either gone on to different stuff or are still there scoring goals.

"I want us to be a real fluent attacking side. I want us to be an aggressive side and I want to score goals and Che is going to be key to that,” Jones added.

“I thought he was excellent on Sunday, he really was excellent. And I'm pleased with his contribution. I know I can make him better.”  

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