Lambert has no animosity for predecessor Hughes

Hughes was sacked by Stoke back in January and Paul Lambert appointed in his place, in a bid to avoid a relegation battle at the bottom of the league. Hughes has now signed on as coach at 'Saints' after Mauricio Pellegrino parted ways with the club earlier in the week.

With the revolving door of managers, Lambert is unconcerned that the appointment will affect his team. He is confident that Hughes will concentrate on his new team, and avoid trying to make a point against his former club.

Hughes had a successful five-year term at Stoke, leading the squad to three successive ninth position finishes, their highest finish since 1975, but a disappointing season this year led to his sacking.

Lambert dismissed claims of a club rivalry between the pair. He said ''I think he will concentrate on his own fixtures. Southampton have got hard fixtures like everyone else. I am sure he will concentrate on Southampton's form. I will do the same here, concentrate on our games, and hopefully we can start to win.'' He also rejected speculation of a personal rivalry. ''I know Mark,' he added. 'He did a fabulous job here before me. He was here nearly five years and did a great job. I know the problems Southampton are in, but it is never easy to see another manager lose his job.'' He also said that he has his ''own work cut out and he will have his own at Southampton. Yes it's a big job he's got.''

The 'Potters' coach also pointed out that managers have a tough job, he said ''you can't blame a manager every time. It's impossible. You can't blame the manager every time for things going wrong.'' As for his own side, Lambert said their ''main objective is stay in the league and then rebuild for next season.''