Saints might be on course to qualify for Europe via the league – but James Ward-Prowse believes they can also get there through the FA Cup.

Ronald Koeman’s side continue their campaign in this season’s competition tomorrow, as they host Crystal Palace in the fourth round.

Hopes of a first appearance in the final since 2003, or even recapturing the famous trophy they last won in 1976, are high this season.

England Under-21 star Ward-Prowse agreed that, with the quality of the Saints team this season, the FA Cup represents the chance to secure a significant, and tangible, success – as well as another route into Europe.

“Of course it does,” he said.

“The mentality of the football club is to win every game of football, whether that be the Capital One Cup, FA Cup or Premier League.

“We want to get into Europe and one of the ways we can do that is, obviously, by winning the FA Cup.

“The manager has told us he’s taking it very seriously and all the lads have as well.”

Saints, who saw off Championship high-fliers Ipswich in a third-round replay last week, will be favourites to book a place in the last 16 tomorrow.

But Ward-Prowse knows there is some hard work to be done if that, not to mention the ultimate goal of winning the competition, is to be achieved.

“Everybody’s got visions of us being at Wembley and lifting the FA Cup,” said the 20-year-old.

“That would be great, but we’ve still got a lot of games to go to get that, so it’s going to take a lot of hard work and professionalism, making sure that we get that.”

Saints beat Crystal Palace only a few weeks ago, as they comfortably triumphed 3-1 at Selhurst Park in a Premier League contest on Boxing Day.

There have been significant changes at the Eagles since then, however, with Neil Warnock being replaced by former Southampton boss Alan Pardew, who has overseen victories in each of his first three games in charge.

“Obviously, when a new manager goes in, it’s always a very difficult period for a team, but they’ve enjoyed the new era and, obviously, they will be wanting to impress Pardew,” said the midfielder.

“We’ll be on our toes, but I think with our confidence and our run of form at the minute we fancy ourselves to beat anyone.”

James Ward-Prowse was speaking at the first ever ‘Together for England Roadshow’, which took place at St Mary’s Primary School, in Southampton. The roadshow is touring the country to further strengthen the Three Lions’ relationship with local communities. For more information, visit TheFA.com.