Adkins makes no case for the defence

Southampton manager Nigel Adkins has shouldered the blame for the newly-promoted side's record-breaking poor defence.

Saints ended a seven-year exile from the top flight after automatic promotion from the Championship, but have so far endured a torrid start to life back in the big time. Saturday's 4-1 defeat at the hands of fellow new boys West Ham means the south-coast side have just four points to show from eight Premier League matches, letting in 24 goals in the process. No side has ever conceded as many goals at this stage of a Premier League season and Adkins knows things need to change quickly. "We've obviously conceded some poor goals again," the Southampton manager said. "We'll remain positive in what we do. We'll work hard on the training ground. "In the first half the players did very well and let's remember, we defend as a team. Let's not highlight any individuals. It is my responsibility and if anyone wants to point the finger, point it me. At the end of the day, we defend as a team and we attack as a team and that is the important thing."