Hasenhuttl says it is 'normal' to watch former players - with Targett set for St Mary's return

Eastleigh-born Targett joined Saints back in 2003 at the age of eight, progressing through the academy system at St Mary’s.

He worked his way up through the youth ranks, eventually being named in a first team matchday squad a decade later.

After his breakout season, Targett was named as the club’s young player of the year in 2014-15.

The full-back featured under the likes of Ronald Koeman, Claude Puel, Mauricio Pellegrino and Mark Hughes during his time in the first team at Saints, as well as playing 14 times under Hasenhuttl.

He made 63 senior appearances for Saints before joining Aston Villa for £15million in 2019.

Following a successful loan spell, Targett joined Newcastle from Villa on a permanent deal in the summer and could line up for Eddie Howe’s side against Saints this afternoon (2pm).

Asked whether he kept half an eye on the 27-year-old’s progress, Hasenhuttl said: “You have all the former players that have been with you in your game, in your sights.

“You have them in your mind - and you watch them and you see them - how they're doing when they're going to other clubs. This is normal, I think.”

Saints are set to face a Newcastle outfit currently on an eight-game unbeaten run.

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