Ronald Koeman rates Nathaniel Clyne as one of the best right-backs he has ever coached.

The Saints boss, who believes the 23-year-old will earn an England call-up if he continues his current form, has been thrilled with his performances this season, capped off by his decisive blockbuster in Tuesday’s 2-1 League Cup victory at Arsenal.

He said: “In my opinion, Clyne is one of the best right full-backs that I’ve had in my teams during the last 15 years and that means a lot because I like to play with offensive right and left full-backs and he has that qualities – he’s fast and gives good crosses.”

Koeman is also pleased with the progress of another of the club’s young full-backs, Matt Targett.

The 19-year-old started at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday – his second senior appearance for Saints – and there are already suggestions a five-year contract is being discussed with the academy product.

Koeman said: “That’s the business of (executive director) Les Reed, that’s not my business. If they ask me, of course, I like to keep Matthew in our squad.

“Matthew, in my opinion, can be a fantastic player. He has to continue with us, he has to improve himself, he needs more experience.

“We have to keep that kind of young players, because it’s part of our philosophy.”