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Southampton's last goal came on 7 February away at QPR

Southampton captain Jose Fonte has told his side to "just shoot" in a bid to add to their tally of one goal in five Premier League games.

Saints are winless in their last three matches and have slipped out of the top four for the first time since December.

"We're not finding the net. It's frustrating but we need to take responsibility," said defender Fonte.

"No-one will criticise if you try and something doesn't come off - at least try and make something happen."

Talking to BBC Radio Solent, Fonte added: "Just shoot - it might hit someone and deflect in. That's what we've got to keep trying."

Saints' goal woes Southampton have averaged 63% possession and have had 14 shots on target in their last three games without scoring. Of the Premier League top 10 only Swansea and Stoke (both 31) have scored fewer goals than Southampton's 38.

Saturday's 1-0 loss to West Brom was Saints' third straight game without scoring, with Graziano Pelle missing two good chances.

Pelle, in particular, has struggled recently and has scored just two goals in his last 17 Premier League games.

With Jay Rodriguez sidelined by a knee injury and back-up strikers Shane Long and Emmanuel Mayuka also missing parts of the season, the Italian has been forced to start every game.

But Fonte is clear that the team are capable of better, despite the injuries.

"We know we can do much better than this," he added.

"We know we can beat anyone - it's just a shame that things aren't happening at the moment."

Ronald Koeman's Saints side will be hoping to rekindle their goal-scoring abilities against a resurgent Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

"We know our strengths - hopefully in the next game we can put it right."