Saints are now starting to see the best of record-signing Dani Osvaldo, according to Dejan Lovren.

The striker earned his side a point against Manchester City with a sublime goal, and has now scored in back-to-back games.

“It was an amazing goal and amazing performance,” said Lovren.

“He was working a lot this week and the last week.

“He knows that he needs to improve himself and now everybody sees the real face of him."

Lovren said it is not uncommon for Osvaldo to produce moments like the one against City when he is on the training pitch.

After a slow start to life at St Mary's, there are signs that some of that magic is now beginning to show when it matters most.

Lovren emphasised how valuable an addition he feels the former Roma man has been.

“We are really happy that we have Dani Osvaldo in our team,” he said.

“He has the character. It is a little bit strange character, but positive and in a good way, so we need him.”

Osvaldo moved to St Mary's in the summer, with the club agreeing a deal that could be worth as much as £14.6m.

Lovren said that the 27-year-old has fitted in extremely well with his new teammates since his arrival.

“Of course,” he said. “I think you need a little bit of time.

“He was in Italy, it’s not the same style of football, but now he’s had the time to improve himself here and he was very good (on Saturday).”