Stuart Armstrong set Southampton challenge as former Celtic star urged not to fly 'under the radar'

The Scotland international netted a howitzer against Coventry City and his manager wants him to follow it up.

Southampton star Stuart Armstrong is convinced he has banished his injuries blues ahead of a vital run for club and country.

The Scotland international netted a howitzer against Coventry City after previously only playing 134 minutes of the first half of the Premier League season following numerous setbacks.

And with the national team due to take on Ukraine next month in the World Cup play-off, semi-final, the former Celtic man believes he could be finding form at just the right time.

He said: "I felt good - I felt like my old self. From a personal point of view it’s been a really frustrating first half of the season for me.

"My first goal of the season as well so it’s definitely something to build on and I’m really happy that it’s helped the team to get a win."

And Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is confident the ex-Dundee United man will now be able to play his part in the remainder of the season.

He said: "It was always the same leg with muscle injuries and hopefully we have now reached a point where he is more stable. But we still have to balance the game-time for him. I think that’s important.

"We always see how important he is for our game when he’s on the pitch, especially in this No.10 position. He’s so flexible, he has runs with the ball and around the box is always dangerous for a goal.

"But I think he must also be a little bit more continuous with his performances. Some moments he has very good games and in others he is a little bit under the radar.

"I know what quality he has. He’s an intelligent player. If he’s fit he definitely can help every team. This is why I must say I am happy he is now at a level where hopefully he stays fit."