Southampton boss Ruben Selles is delighted with the form of Jan Bednarak.
Bednarek, 26, has returned early from his loan at Aston Villa to start five consecutive Premier League matches under Selles and previously Nathan Jones.
"Jan is a natural leader in that back four. He understands the systems, he knows his teammates and he's very calm in possession," the Spaniard said.
He has all the attributes I need for that position. I trust Jan and that's why he has been starting. I trust a lot of players but especially Jan.
"I think he's a good leader for that back four."