Claude Puel refuses to discuss Fonte future

Southampton boss Claude Puel has refused to comment on the future of Jose Fonte ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash against Hapoel Be'er Sheva

Fonte, 32, had recently clarified on Instagram that it is the Saints who are reluctant to discuss terms over a fresh contract.

While questioned on the situation, Puel insisted that he is more focused on the club's all important game against Hapoel, and would rather discuss the future of his players at a later date.

"It's a situation and discussion between the player and the club. I cannot give a comment about this," he told reporters.

"When I see this on newspaper I repeat the most important thing for me is to speak about the team and about the game tomorrow and not just this personal situation, an individual situation."

Fonte, who is contracted to Southampton until June 2018, has been restricted from playing in Europe this term with a view to avoiding him being cup-tied in case he is sold.