ROY Hodgson is "like a role model" for managers, says Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl.

The two are set to go head-to-head at St Mary's tomorrow for the fourth time, when Hodgson's Crystal Palace battle Saints (8.15pm).

The 73-year-old got the better of Hasenhuttl for the first time on the opening day of this season when a Wilfried Zaha finish earned the Eagles a 1-0 victory at Selhurst Park.

And Hasenhuttl is looking forward to locking horns with the Premier League's most experienced manager again tomorrow evening.

"I must say the absolutely highest possible respect from my side for his entire managing career," said Hasenhuttl of Hodgson.

"A wonderful person, an unbelievable manager, something like a role model if you want to see for how long you can do this job.

"I spoke one time with him and asked him if he is not nervous anymore or if he is still nervous and he said he is always still under pressure and nervous.

"We always speak about how healthy this job is, when you see him, it should be very healthy because he is still fit and likes to do this job.

"I cannot imagine he is stopping now completely. It is always enjoyable to see him and talk to him and he is absolutely relaxed in himself.

"Such a person is good to watch for me."