Ronald Koeman has hailed Morgan Schneiderlin’s professionalism after the French midfielder remained a Saints player at the close of the transfer window.

Schneideiln wished to quit Saints during the summer with Tottenham interested in signing him, and was frustrated at the club’s desire to block his move.

However, he has knuckled back down and scored twice against West Ham last time out, leading Koeman to heap praise on one of his star men.

“First of all it’s a very important player for our team, playing in an important position in the team,” said Koeman.

“We had a difficult two weeks but he did everything on a good , professional way and the best answer is on the pitch.

“He showed that from the beginning when he was playing and doing everything for the club.

“Always there is some interest in players but it was an important decision to keep him in the team not only for the quality of the player but for the spirit of the club and the team and that was a good sign.”