DEFENDER Jack Stephens admitted he has been forced to "adapt" as club captain during a season which saw Saints relegated to the Championship.

Stephens, who became skipper following James Ward-Prowse's exit in 2023, wanted to lead by example with the armband, but confessed that it has not been possible this term.

He was not one to shout at teammates in his first year as captain, which culminated in winning promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs.

The 31 year old, who recently played his 200th Premier League game, has held more conversations with players this season in a bid to turn around a turgid campaign.

For all his efforts, Stephens could not turn around a campaign which has seen Saints demoted back to the Championship after picking up 12 points.

And while he admits there are few positives to take from this season, Stephens wants Southampton to use the campaign as a learning experience.

Speaking to PLP, Stephens said: "I've had to adapt. The situation forces you to change a little bit. There have been moments that I've missed and I will look back on and learn from.

Jack Stephens has now been Saints captain for two seasons.Jack Stephens has now been Saints captain for two seasons. (Image: Gareth Fuller/PA) READ: Saints to face Premier League opposition in Still's first St Mary's game

"There have also been moments where I've stepped in to talk to the group and individuals, to rally the group, probably more than I did last year.

"That comes down to the situation with the result and how the season has gone, there is certainly loads that I've learned and for me to build on.

"I don't find it awkward doing it. Those first few chats, you always wonder how the group is going to react, but the group have been fantastic.

"They've trained hard and tried to take things on board. As the season went on, more and more lads stepped into the role of being a leader.

"We've had quite a young, inexperienced group. At the start, we struggled with the leadership. We have to draw the positives from this season. I know there aren't many.

"We have to see it as a massive learning experience and how we can take things into next year, if we can get back here next year, which is the sole aim, how can we do things better?"