MANCHESTER United boss Marc Skinner admitted he "really hopes" Saints Women can get promoted this season and added: "The Women's Super League needs teams like them."

United stung Southampton with two second half goals to knock them out of the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon.

Lexi Lloyd-Smith had pulled Saints level when her cross caught out Mary Earps after Ella Toone gave the Red Devils a first half lead.

Saints did not give in against WSL opposition and hit the post in injury time and had a penalty appeal turned down.

Skinner was left impressed by the hosts' performance at the Silverlake Stadium and admitted he would like to see them get promoted this season.

He told the Daily Echo: "I'm happy because all that matters in this competition is winning. I thought Southampton were excellent today.

"I thought the crowd were magnificent. We also travelled with a lot of our fans as well. It was a tough game.

"I hope Southampton come up because they play the type of football that the WSL needs. 

"Marieanne and her group deserve a lot of credit. I think there is an extra bit of experience needed for them to get to the WSL.

"But the style they play is very much suited to the WSL. They are possession based and they aren't scared with the ball. I like that about them."

Skinner continued: "They make teams defend. I hope that they can come up, but it is a difficult Championship season to come out of.

"Hopefully they do get into the WSL soon, then it is up to the club to add the quality that Marieanne needs to continue the project.

"I believe with the way they play football, if they get their consistency right towards the end of the season they will be ok.

"They just need to pick up the results. Sometimes the football has to suffer for you to pick up a result. I really hope they come up."