FORMER Premier League midfielder David Dunn has predicted Saints will struggle in the Championship under new boss Will Still.

Dunn, a one-time England international, believes new Southampton boss Still faces a real challenge in charge of the recently relegated side.

Saints are currently the second-favourites to win promotion from the Championship, behind Ipswich, who won 10 points more than them in the Premier League last season.

Speaking to OLGB, Dunn said: “I watched him on Monday Night Football a couple of months ago. He came across well. I think he's done well in his previous job.

Will Still cut his teeth in Belgium before making a new for himself in French football.Will Still cut his teeth in Belgium before making a new for himself in French football. (Image: Southampton FC) READ: Saints fans are right to be excited about Edwards following QPR loan

"But again, English football is totally different. I think it's going to be a real challenge, if I'm being honest.

"He's got to get a real buy-in early doors from the group. I think it's going to be tough. I think Southampton could struggle.”

Saints won just 12 points in the Premier League last season, cycling through two managers before appointing Simon Rusk in interim charge until the end of the season.

Belgian-born Still has never worked in English senior football, but joins Saints after guiding Lens to an eighth-place finish last season, missing out on Europe by five points.

The 32 year old, who has signed a three-year deal, has set out to win promotion in his first season at the club.