RALPH Hasenhuttl hailed the display of match-winner Armando Broja, who fired Saints to victory over Leeds United.

Broja, 20, capped his first Premier League start with his first Premier League goal as Saints saw off the Whites 1-0 at St Mary's.

The Albania international, on loan from Chelsea, was a handful throughout and could have added to his tally as the hosts dominated Marcelo Bielsa's side for the majority of the contest.

But his one goal was enough to ensure a first league victory of the campaign for Saints.

This afternoon was Broja's first Saints start since the Carabao Cup tie at Sheffield United, in which Hasenhuttl openly criticised aspects of the youngster's performance.

Since, the striker has been away on international duty, netting the winner for Albania against Hungary.

Discussing Broja's performance against Leeds, boss Hasenhuttl said: "Against Sheffield I was not so happy with his performance. Today it was much better.

"I think the goal in the international break has definitely given him confidence and he has something you can use to be a threat around the box.

"I also had the feeling when he has the ball that he is a threat. He has the speed to go over a player and to have a clear shot.

"There were too other good scenes where he can score, but I must say it was a good performance, yes."

In the week, Hasenhuttl described Broja as a "good sub", hinting that he was not yet ready to complete a full 90 minutes in the Premier League.

Asked why he opted to start the striker, Hasenhuttl explained: "Che Adams was injured and we needed a big striker up front.

"Armando is a striker who scored in the international break. I think it is time for him also to show he can play 90 minutes good.

"Today I think he worked quite hard, also against the ball much better, which in our game is very important.

"Also with the game he showed he can help you and this is good to see."