Southampton's Fernandes admits missing 'feeling of winning'

Midfielder Fernandes, 20, has become a supporters favourite in his first season at St Mary's, having signed from boyhood Sporting in Portugal.

The youngster has made 35 Premier League appearances, only missing one league match since he arrived - and that was through a suspension.

Fernandes is leading Southampton's poll to be the Fans' Player of the Season and is also likely to win the Daily Echo's Player of the Year award. 

"I'm very happy to get support from the fans. They are amazing. My family has sent me this many times," Fernandes told the Daily Echo.

"I've never been in a place like this, so I try to help the team and try to get some points for the fans. When I win the next game, I will enjoy it more.

"It's (awards) good for me but I think the most important is the team. Yes, the first season in the Premier League, individually, was nice for me.

"I played many minutes. I think I played good. For me, it's the best league in the world. The intensity here, it's mad. I think every team is great.

Mateus Fernandes set up a goal against final-day opponents Arsenal in October (Image: PA)

"They have good players, a good coach, and the stadium atmosphere is very nice. So, yes, it's a dream come true but I miss the feeling of winning."

Saints are without a win in their last 13 Premier League matches, since beating Ipswich Town 2-1 at Portman Road at the beginning of February.

They have picked up three draws in that time, including the 0-0 draw with FA Cup finalists Man City to reach 12 points two weeks ago.

Saints were beaten 2-0 at Everton on Sunday and have just one last chance to add points to their dismal total before the summer commences.

Interim boss Simon Rusk's side host Arsenal, who are guaranteed second in the table following their 1-0 win over Newcastle United last time out.

"It was a beautiful day for the Everton fans, the atmosphere in the stadium was very nice," said Fernandes, on the final match at Goodison Park. 

"We tried to win but we didn't, so we're not happy. Now we need to recover well and play against Arsenal. Of course, we can be confident.

"We have one more game to play. It will be difficult but like we played against City, If we play with energy, I think we can get some points.

"Even against Arsenal last time, we played well, so we need to look at these games and try to be confident, with aggressiveness, power and energy."

Fernandes set up Cameron Archer's opening goal at Emirates Stadium, before the Gunners fought back to win 3-1 in October's reverse fixture.

The Portuguese has been linked to summer transfer interest from Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace and could depart Saints for a profit.