Southampton secured their first Championship win in seven games on Wednesday with a hard-fought 2-1 win at Queens Park Rangers in their first fixture since the sacking of manager Will Still.
With Under 21s boss Tonda Eckert in charge of the first team temporarily, club captain Jack Stephens was recalled to the starting 11 for the first time since September.
"It always means a lot to me when I play for the club," Stephens told BBC Radio Solent.
"It's a great group and that's why it's difficult when we get doubted.