Manolo Gabbiadini will be hoping to emulate his 'Derby della Lanterna' heroics by lighting up the ElClasicoast on Sunday.

Saints’ trip to Brighton & Hove Albion will be Gabbiadini’s first derby for the club.

It takes him him back to his winning goal in the 'Derby of the Lantern' in September 2014.

He smiles as he recalls his fortuitous free kick for Sampdoria against Genoa, whose derby is named after their city's lighthouse.

Gabbiadini's 75th-minute free-kick, an inswinging left-footed cross from the right flank, crept in at the far post as Sampdoria beat their arch rivals 1-0 to win one of Italy’s most historic derbies at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, the ground the clubs share.

Saints’ v Brighton & Hove Albion may be a far cry from that or indeed clashes against Pompey.

But the Seagulls have the potential to develop into regular adversaries following last season's promotion to the Premier League.

“In the Premier League it doesn’t matter who you play,” said Gabbiadini.

“You could have been in the Premier League for 20 years or you could be newly-promoted.

“But whoever you come up against you need to play with your heart and you need to play with your head.”

The Italian striker also has a two-legged World Cup qualification play-off to look forward to against Sweden in a fortnight’s time.

But he is not letting that distract him as Saints prepare for Sunday’s big game.

“There are two very important games coming up, against Brighton and Burnley, only after them will I be able to think about Italy,” he said.

After beginning his Saints career with six goals in his first four appearances, Gabbiadini’s brace in the recent 2-2 with Newcastle United was a very welcome after one goal in 16 outings.

“Perhaps the opposition knows me more this season,” he continued. “That’s not to say last season was easy in any way.

“Last season was very difficult, but the most important thing is that I keep working and keep improving.”

Last week’s 1-0 win against West Brom was also very timely, with Sofiane Boufal's sensational goal providing some momentum to take to the Amex.

“Both myself and team are in good form at the moment, we’re feeling ready and are just focused on getting three points on Sunday,” continued Gabbiadini.

“It’s a team game, if a striker scores it’s often from the good work of his teammates - the most important thing is we fight together and win together.

“The way the team’s playing is similar to last season, we have largely the same players and have made some very good additions in the transfer market.

“We’re in good shape.”