Stewart confident Southampton will bounce back to Premier League

Stewart is utterly confident Saints have enough quality and experience to achieve another instant promotion, despite suffering the earliest relegation in Premier League history. 

The two-time Scotland international made just four appearances for Saints when they won promotion via the play-offs during his first season at the club.

His second year at Southampton has also been hampered by injuries, however, he made his long-awaited first St Mary's start against Fulham on Saturday. 

READ MORE: 'Dark, lonely days' - Stewart opens up on injury hell after first St Mary's start

Southampton's Ross Stewart (centre) looks dejected after suffering relegation to the Championship. (Image: Bradley Collyer/PA)

Stewart believes a few wins early next season will see confidence return to a side who are struggling as a result of their dreadful Premier League form.

"I don't think a lot has got to change. I think winning a few games will build confidence," he explained following the 2-1 defeat to Fulham.

"I think we're probably a team that lacks a bit of confidence just through results, which is natural, but we've got a really good group in there.

"We've got a lot of talented, quality players that hopefully we can keep hold of in the summer. We've got a big squad, so whoever's in charge is going to have a lot to pick from.

"I don't think there's anything to change too much. I think we've got a good breed of experience. Like I said, we've got a lot of quality.

"We've just got to get ourselves (together) and have a good pre-season, get the team bonded, try to start well and get confidence bred — and we'll be fine."

Asked if Saints can bounce straight back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, Stewart confidently responded: "Yes."