Swansea boss Francesco Guidolin disappointed with display in Southampton loss

Swansea boss Francesco Guidolin admitted his side did not play well as they slipped to a 1-0 home defeat to Southampton.

Shane Long headed in the only goal of the game in the second half, condemning the Swans to their first defeat since Guidolin took charge.

The Italian has been pleased with his side's performances since then but felt they were well below par against the in-form Saints.

"Today, for the first time since I've been here, we played not very well," he said.

"It's the first time because in the other matches we played very well. I don't know why we did not play well. This is my first month and it is difficult to understand anything.

"I think we can do better but Southampton are a good team and are difficult in some situations. They are playing well in this period with five victories and six clean sheets and score against a lot of teams, not just us."

However, despite his disappointment in his own side's display, Guidolin argued that a draw would have been a fair result.

"Southampton played well but I think the right result was 0-0 or 1-1 but they won and congratulations to them," he added.

As a result of their early exit from the FA Cup, Swansea's next game is not until February 28 against Tottenham and the former Parma manager is now looking forward to spending some time on the training ground with his players.

"After two or three days we have the opportunity to work hard and for the future, I am confident," Guidolin said.