Pierre-Emile Højbjerg says he has never experienced anything like the support that Southampton’s fans showed in San Siro two weeks ago – and he is hoping they can replicate that backing at St Mary’s this week.
The UEFA Europa League trip to Inter a fortnight ago saw 6,715 Saints supporters file into the iconic stadium, making sure their voices were heard throughout the night.
Ahead of Thursday’s clash between the teams on the south coast, Højbjerg said: "We saw in San Siro – we had the feeling that we played at home, how they came, how they supported us and how they always stood behind us.
“I must say, I have been at some clubs and I think I have never experienced something like that, and to be that loud doesn't happen a lot, and that shows love and passion for the club, and that shows real history.
“The players can feel it, and the players will try to put all their energy into the game and try to get the best possible result, because it's in all of our favours that we get the best possible result, and we will maybe make history and go through to the knockout stages.”
With Saints on four points at the midway stage of the Group K campaign, and Inter just one behind them, Højbjerg knows how pivotal this match could be.
"Of course, it's a crucial game,” he said. “If we win this game I think it looks very good ahead of the knockout stages.
“If we lose the game, we suddenly can be one step behind, and with only two games left then there is a lot to catch and that can be difficult.
“So it's really important to get a good start to the game, to get a good feeling and atmosphere. The fans have to be there, and I really look forward to it.”
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