Ronald Koeman believes his Southampton side need to beat Watford on Sunday to boost confidence among the squad.
Everton sealed a comfortable 3-0 win at St Mary's last weekend before Saints were held to a 1-1 draw in the opening leg of the Europa League playoff against FC Midtjylland on Thursday.
A trip to newly promoted Watford could be just what Koeman needs to guide his side to their first league win of the season, although the Hornets have impressed in drawing with Everton and West Brom.
"Of course after the defeat against Everton we need a win. We know that," Koeman said at his prematch news conference.
"A win gives confidence to the players. It's important to get a good result this Sunday. Sometimes you don't want to put too much pressure on winning, but the best is to learn about mistakes."
Koeman has already identified his defence as an area where he needs to improve and is looking to bring in at least one new face before the transfer window closes on Sept. 1.
Most of the talk in recent days has been about players leaving St Mary's -- but both Koeman and the club have reiterated they have no desire to sell Sadio Mane to Manchester United or Victor Wanyama to Tottenham.
Both started in the draw against Danish champions Midtjylland and are in line to retain their places despite talk of potential exits as Koeman looks to bring stability to his team.
"Some players have some kicks from Thursday, but we won't do a lot [on Friday]," he said. "You can't do a lot because they have to recover. We will give them good treatment to recuperate.
"Saturday we will have the last session to prepare for the game on Sunday, but we know what we like to do and we know how we like to play. That's the most important thing.
"I believe every game we will be stronger. We will have more organisation, but we have to improve and of course that is easier when you win games."