Ralph Hasenhuttl expects Ings to commit his future to Saints

Ralph Hasenhuttl has challenged Danny Ings to perk up his performance in the final quarter of the season and commit his future to the Saints for a long term.

The former Liverpool man has been linked outside the Saint Mary’s, with Tottenham Hotspurs and Manchester City speculated to be after the English International, who was second in the race for the Golden Boot last season with 22 goals.

Ings has one year on his current contract and his form has been obstructed with injuries and has eight goals in the current season for Southampton. He is in contention to feature against Burnley at St Mary’s on Easter Sunday along with Theo Walcott.

Hasenhuttl feels the forward is secured with his role in the Premier League instead of opting for a club that will limit his playing days albeit on improved terms.

“He had a fantastic season last season, but since then he has had a few injury problems and did not score that much, but he is still a very good striker,” Hasenhuttl said.

“Is he good enough to be an option for them? I don’t know, but I expect him to stay with us as he knows what he has with us.

“He has one more year (on his) contract. This will be an interesting situation for him if one of the big clubs wants him. It is always difficult for us to keep a player with us, this is normal, but I do not see this scenario in the summer if I am honest.”

Southampton are 14th and will host Burnley on Sunday in the Premier League.