Southampton attacker Theo Walcott says friendly defeat to Athletic Bilbao will be good for them.
Walcott came on at half-time and made an immediate impact, bringing the hosts back into the game at 2-1 as Saints started the second period on top.
“It was very intense. Watching in the first half, we knew it was going to be a stronger challenge," he said.
“Spanish teams tend to be very good technically on the ball, very difficult to break down, very organised and know when to stop and start a game.
“We learned a lot today, an intense game, I feel like fitness levels are getting there now, and we've got a good week's training now before Everton.
“I can speak for everyone – everyone feels pretty fit. The past couple of years no one has really had a pre-season, so it's the first one in a few years.
“We've got a few more numbers now for competition for places, which is really important, especially when you come into the Christmas period, and I think the manager's got some good options to take into next week."
