Mark Wotte has told his players to “live like monks” as they battle through a busy fortnight that could decide their Championship future.

The Saints head coach is telling his stars to forget all outside distractions and concentrate fully on a run of five games in a fortnight that are absolutely crucial if Saints are to avoid relegation.

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That run started with victory over Cardiff at St Mary’s and continues tonight when Saints travel to face Ipswich at Portman Road.

That is followed by a game at Birmingham and then back-to-back home matches against Derby and QPR.

Wotte smiled: “Hopefully we will be spared any injuries.

“They have to really live like monks – they have to sleep in the kitchen and drink only water and very good other liquids and have proper food.

“I tell the players to send their wives to a resort and have a very good sleep.

“They must focus only on football.”

Wotte’s upbeat and jovial mood rather reflects the growing confidence in the Saints camp after two home victories in a row.

But Wotte insists his side must stay grounded as they remain mired deep in relegation trouble.

“The confidence has grown and the boys are coming in with happy faces but I am always a little bit concerned after two wins that we have to get everybody back on their toes and switched on for Ipswich away,” said Wotte.

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