ANGUS Gunn has revealed that James Ward-Prowse addressed his Saints teammates on the importance of their upcoming match with Pompey.

The midfielder, who has been at St Mary’s since he was eight, was born in Portsmouth and knows all about the fierce rivalry between the two sides.

Because of this, Gunn explained that the Carabao Cup third round tie is Ward-Prowse’s dream tie.

Gunn said: "I don't think I need to do any research [on the derby].

"Prowsey has already told the lads about it and you see the reaction after the draw from all the fans.

"Obviously I heard all the fans singing against Manchester United and everyone is really looking forward to it.

"He basically said that was his dream draw, really. That's what he said and he's really looking forward to playing there.

"Whatever his history is, it is. He's been a Southampton guy for years now and we'll be going out onto that pitch to win it for the fans.

"I think it's going to be a great atmosphere for everyone involved.

"But, at the end of the day, it's a couple of games away so we've got to put it in the back of our minds for a little bit. We'll be ready on the night.”

Saints won’t play again until 14 September when they will travel to newly-promoted side Sheffield United.

The international break has come at a perfect time for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side as it will give players Nathan Redmond and Moussa Djenepo time to recover from their injuries.

Redmond is facing a spell of up to three weeks on the sidelines, with Djenepo missing the match against Manchester United due to a muscular issue.

When questioned whether the international break has come at a great time, Gunn responded: "Possibly, possibly.

“But then again, we've had two really good results and we feel quite confident, so positives and negatives I guess.

"But the injuries are big players to us and sooner we get them back the better for us."

Gunn was left out of the England side which has resulted in him having a rare international break where he isn’t involved.

Gunn added: "I don't really know what to do with myself!

"I've been with the youth teams of England since I was 15 so, yeah, it's going to be interesting for me to get a few days off but also get some really good training here under my belt.

"I think the manager will push us really hard along with a few days off. I think I'll just going to have to take the positives and enjoy it."