Southampton manager Claude Puel has revealed Charlie Austin overcame illness to help his team to a 3-1 victory over Burnley on Sunday.
The striker scored twice in the win at St Mary's to take his tally to four goals in as many games against his former club.
Austin's current form is even more impressive with seven goals in six matches in all competitions and he has forged a successful partnership with Nathan Redmond at Southampton.
Puel praised both players following the win, which he believes was a solid team performance from Saints, particularly after the break.
"He was a little ill this week and I didn't know if he could play," said Puel of 27-year-old Austin.
"It is important for the team with the character and a good spirit of course, but all the players can make a good game around him.
"You saw a very good player and a very good team in the second half.
"Nathan also came in with a very good performance, with very good technique. I asked him to shoot a bit more when he gets the chance and he did that."
Southampton return to Europa League action on Thursday with a trip to Italy to face Inter Milan, but Puel insists Austin is not guaranteed a starting spot despite impressing against the Clarets.
"No, it's important he doesn't play all the games from the start," Puel said.
"It's important you don't lose Charlie, it's important he's available every time, to keep a good physical level for every player.
"Charlie is not an endurance player; it's important to keep him with his qualities, and we can change the team every game. It's not possible, for me, for a player to start all the games every three days.
"We can keep all the players with a good performance all the time and a good physical level. It's important to conserve (their energy), to continue this work for the team, for the future."
EmoticonEmoticon