Steven Davis believes the fact so many Saints players worked under Mauricio Pochettino could give them the edge in this weekend's vital match against Tottenham tomorrow.
The former Argentina defender last season led Saints to their best ever Premier League points tally during a memorable campaign at St Mary's.
Southampton fans' goodwill towards Pochettino was soon eroded, though, as his departure to White Hart Lane proved the catalyst to an unparalleled summer talent drain.
Despite that, just a point and a place separate Saints and Spurs as a remarkable season comes to a close, with a positive result for the hosts tomorrow enough to break the points record set last term.
Victory would see Ronald Koeman's men usurp Spurs in the standings and bolster their European chances, with Davis, one of many to have worked under Pochettino, well aware of what a "big game" this is for all connected to the club.
"The players never back away from (the fact this is a big game)," the Northern Ireland captain said.
"It's nice to be in a position where we're having big games at this stage of the season and there's an importance on it.
"We're looking forward to the game and hopefully we can bounce back and get the three points.
"It is great to be in a position where we're still challenging for a European spot at this stage.
Mauricio Pochettino.
"We've had a great season so far but we don't want it to peter out, really.
"It's about seeing it through and Saturday gives us an opportunity to pick up points against one of our nearest rivals."
Tottenham are the only current Premier League side Southampton have failed to beat since their Premier League return in 2012 - a run Davis believes the players' knowledge of Pochettino's methods can help them end.
"Obviously we know how Mauricio works and how he sets up his teams," he told Saints' YouTube channel.
"Hopefully that will be an advantage to us in terms of the players as we know a bit of background "Obviously it will be nice to see him as enjoyed some good times under him here, but we're confident going into the game and looking to take the three points.
"The fans will hopefully get behind us as they always do. There will be an edge to the game with a returning manager, so it's a game for everyone to look forward to."
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