The Argentinian took to the St Mary's helm in controversial circumstances in January but has quickly won around supporters with an exciting brand of pressing football. That was evident in the high-profile scalps of Manchester City, Liverpool and most recently Chelsea, who left St Mary's on the wrong end of a 2-1 scoreline on Saturday.
Rodriguez opened the scoring against the reigning European champions, and said: "The manager has put his faith in me. He gives you belief that you should be on the pitch because he's played me and given me a chance. All I can keep doing is to try and do my best for him, and for the team."
He went on: "I was chuffed with the goal but, like I always say, it's the three points that matter."
It was fine all-round performance from Southampton, who went ahead in the 23rd minute when Rodriguez finished a superb team move by slotting past Petr Cech.
John Terry was allowed to level unmarked from a corner 10 minutes later, only for Saints to hit back immediately through an exquisite - and ultimately decisive - 25-yard Rickie Lambert free-kick.
"It was a good performance," Rodriguez said. "We worked really hard and I thought we deserved the win.
"Obviously it was a great goal from Rickie, which was key, so it was a good three points.
"We just have to carry on that form we've got. We did well against Liverpool and worked hard during the international break.
"We know how good Chelsea are and I thought we played really well."
Source: PA
Source: PA