MAYA Yoshida is hoping a victory over Leicester can be the start of another ‘unforgettable’ cup run.

Saints’ defender started in the 2017 League Cup final defeat to Manchester United and is eager to go one step closer this year.

If Mark Hughes’ team manage to beat Leicester, a quarter-final match against Man City at St Mary’s awaits them.

Yoshida said: “We went to the final two years ago, which was one of the most unforgettable memories in Southampton for me.

“I want to achieve that again.

“I want to go to Wembley and win the title this time.

“Leicester away is always difficult. They have some great players in attack.”

The Japanese international is expecting Hughes to make a flurry of the changes for the trip to the King Power Stadium.

By doing this, Yoshida reckons it gives the players that come into the fold at Leicester a perfect opening to perform and prove they are worthy of starting against Man United on Saturday.

Yoshida added: “It’s another opportunity for the substitutes.

“I’m only guessing, but I think we will change some players and that will be a test for the players who come in.

“We haven’t won in a long time and we need to win.

“Hopefully we can go to the next round and the players can show a good performance to the manager and the fans.

“That will be a sign that all the substitutes are ready for the weekend.”

Yoshida isn’t a stranger to a role on the bench, but has started the last two of Saints’ matches.

He regained his spot alongside Wesley Hoedt for the games against Watford and Fulham after the 6-1 hammering they were dished out at the Etihad Stadium by Man City.

And the 30-year-old revealed the challenges that come your way when you’re an unused substitute for a sustained amount of time.

“It’s always tough to sit on the bench, both mentally and physically,” Yoshida added.

“We have to keep our fitness and mentally we have to stay strong, which I have done for a long time.

“I understand how to manage myself on the bench and I know that the chance to play will come, and when it does, I know I need to take it.

“If the substitutes pass the test at Leicester then it’s more opportunity for us to play.”