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Southampton's Claude Puel staying upbeat despite Sparta Prague loss

Claude Puel has told his Southampton players not to be too downbeat after their 1-0 Europa League defeat at Sparta Prague.

Costa Nhamoinesu's early goal was enough to book Sparta's place in the round of 32 as group winners, but the Saints now face a decisive clash with Hapoel Be'er Sheva at St Mary's in a fortnight.

Hapoel moved level on points with Puel's men after coming from two goals down to beat Inter Milan, who can no longer qualify for the knockout stages.

A goalless draw against the Israeli side would be enough to send Southampton through and Puel quickly turned his attention to that game.