ORIOL Romeu is backing Mario Lemina to help Saints get over the line in their quest for Premier League survival.

Lemina came on at half time during the 3-1 defeat to Newcastle on Saturday but managed to get the south coast side back in the game with a goal.

And ahead of this evening’s trip to Watford, Romeu thinks the Gabonese international could force his way into the starting XI.

Romeu said: “It’s been brilliant to see Mario come back – it’s been such a long time.

“He had barely trained all week and it’s very good to see him back.

“We are pleased to have such a good player coming into the squad again and, hopefully, he helps us in the last stage of the season to get us as many points as possible.

“I always think that the more players we have and the better players we have who are available then the team will be boosted.

“We all want to play and we all want to play as many games as possible, but if someone is doing better than the others, then it’s as simple as that.”

Saints can almost guarantee themselves another season in the Premier League if they manage to leave Vicarage Road with three points.

It won’t prove to be an easy task though, with Watford only losing once at home in their last eight games in all competitions.

This run of form includes five wins and has seen them chase down a Europa League qualifying spot.

Despite Watford’s impressive form, Romeu is demanding a reaction from his fellow Saints, following the disappointing defeat on Saturday.

“The game today is going to be crucial and we need to win it because we need to get more points,” the Saints midfielder added.

“We cannot think that we are safe and that we can start enjoying playing football because that’s not true and that’s not what the team are thinking.

“There has to be a reaction now.

“We have been positive with the things we have been doing so far, so it’s going to be another one today.

“Watford are a tough team, but we are pretty confident we can get something.”

After a dreadful first half at St. James’ Park, manager Ralph Hasenhuttl switched things up by bringing on Lemina and Stuart Armstrong.

Saints immediately improved, which has left Romeu wanting more of the same this evening.

He added: “We need to minimise the mistakes we made against Newcastle, otherwise it’s going to be another easy, easy evening for them.

“If we play like we did in the second half against Newcastle, winning second balls, then we have a better chance to win.

“I don’t think they [Watford] play amazing football, but they are very clinical. They know exactly what they have to do.”