The Austrian coach recalled how the Saints won the trophy in 1976 and received it from the Queen herself – the last time she handed the trophy.
It’s safe to say that Ralph Hasenhuttl has very much endeared himself to a sizeable number of Southampton fans since his arrival in December.
Although the Saints are now in the Premier League relegation zone, the Austrian has has a galvanising effect on the players, who seem much improved as shown by their performance in the 0-0 draw at Chelsea.
As a result, many Southampton fans are quietly optimistic of how things will pan out under Hasenhuttl in the coming months, but aside from the prospect of improvements on the pitch, his demeanour off it is also winning plaudits.
Speaking ahead of the south coast club’s FA Cup third-round clash away at Derby County on Saturday, the former RB Leipzig head coach impressed reporters with his knowledge of the competition – as well as dishing out some Saints-related trivia and throwing in a compliment for good measure.
For reference, Southampton won the FA Cup in 1976, beating Manchester United in the final at Wembley Stadium, but Hasenhuttl provided a fact which some fans and neutrals may have not been fully aware of.
“The old Wembley Stadium is always in my mind, always a fantastic pitch, it was amazing – celebrating with the Queen, who gave the trophy,” he said at his pre-match press conference.
“As I know, the last time she gave it was to Southampton, because maybe she was thinking it couldn’t get better, so then she stopped. It’s an awesome cup and I’m looking forward to it.”
Here’s what some Southampton fans have said on Twitter about his comments and knowledge:
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