INTERIM boss Simon Rusk believes the success of Southampton's academy this season is contributing to a "feel good factor" despite the senior team suffering relegation.

Tyler Dibling, 19, has successfully stepped up to the Premier League this campaign and has been joined in the first-team by Jay Robinson, 18, this month. 

Robinson was handed his senior debut by Rusk following a breakout season with the under-21s, which has seen his development accelerate.

The teenagers closed out the game for Saints during their 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, something Rusk feels is a sign of the good work being done in the academy.

READ MORE: Saints U18s continue scoring streak with six-goal thriller win over West Ham

The Under-21s remain in the hunt for two titles - the Premier League 2 play-offs and the Premier League Cup - which could cool the chances of more debuts in the short term.

Calum McFarlane's are to face current PL Cup holders Brentford in a semi-final at St Mary's and Leicester City in a home PL2 play-off tie this month.

McFarlane, who replaced Rusk as under-21s boss when he signed a first-team contract, has won seven points from a possible 12 since stepping up from the Under-18.

READ MORE: 'Big few weeks' - Robinson aiming to prove he is 'ready' following Saints debut

"I think it's a nice thing at a football club to see that you've got smooth progression; it's not just the players who have got a pathway, that staff have too," Rusk told the Daily Echo.

"I think it's a nice thing to have continuity. Calum McFarlane and Matty Etherington have done great. They're finishing the season really well - both the 18s and the 21s. 

"That's nice to see, and it contributes to that feel-good factor that we're after and we want. Hopefully, they can finish the season as strong as possible. They've done really well."