Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg says it is "a joy" to play for Saints under Ralph Hasenhuttl after firing the club a step closer to Premier League safety.

Saints captain Hojbjerg scored the only goal in Saturday's vital 1-0 victory at fellow strugglers Brighton.

The narrow win at the Amex Stadium leaves the two south coast clubs level on 33 points, five clear of the relegation zone.

Denmark midfielder Hojbjerg, who was given the skipper's armband following Hasenhuttl's appointment in December, believes his manager has instilled an identity and togetherness at St Mary's.

"Technically our play could be better and sometimes our passing quality could be better," Hojbjerg told Southampton's website.

"But it helps when you're fighting like this and building a DNA and spirit around the team, with the fans and the club.

"Most importantly, the players and the coach are coming together and forming a strong DNA.

"Even in the difficult times we stand together to get these wins and that's a joy. Everybody is competing and everyone is staying sharp.

"It's a joy to be around the team at the moment."