MARK Hughes wants Saints to push on and get their first Premier League win of the season at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Saints sealed their first win of the campaign in the Carabao Cup at Brighton on Tuesday night and now Hughes says confidence is good going to Selhurst Park.

Hughes’ side have one point from three games in the Premier League, having drawn against Burnley on the opening day before defeats to Everton and Leicester.

He said: “We hope so. We felt we played well against Leicester at the weekend. We were unfortunate to lose that game, but we showed good form in that game.

“We came here today (Brighton) with different personnel, but won the game so confidence is good at the moment.”

Hughes has food for thought ahead of the Palace trip, with some players impressing at Brighton in the second half.

Maya Yoshida missed out completely in the 2-1 defeat at home to Leicester but got his first minutes of the season at Brighton, playing the full 90 minutes.

The centre-back has been working back up to full fitness after starting pre-season late following his World Cup campaign with Japan.

The 30-year-old has been one of Saints’ most reliable performers in the past two seasons and with the defence struggling at times, he could be in for his first top-flight start at Palace.

Certainly, Hughes will want to find a settled partnership or trio at centre-back, having so far played a different combination of centre-backs in the first four games.

There’s also Jan Bednarek to consider in the mix for a centre-back role. The Poland international came back late after the World Cup, but finished last season strongly.

A settled defence can only help Saints in their mission to jolt start their Premier League campaign, while upfront Hughes is keen to find the right blend.

Danny Ings is certainly the first name on the team sheet in that respect but Charlie Austin ended a frustrating run with the winning goal against Brighton in the Carabao Cup, potentially giving him a chance against Palace.

Sam Gallagher was also impressive against Brighton, with his direct running, height and power a clear asset, with Hughes certainly recognising that post-match.

Shane Long and Manolo Gabbiadini are also in the mix.