I think almost every hardened Saint was feeling both a little sore and apprehensive prior to the new season; selling possibly Southampton FC’s strongest players, including Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw, Rickie Lambert and Calum Chambers was a rather dubious, yet gutsy decision. We could have been left to shudder in the cold, without the spine of the squad, but Ronald Koeman entered and immediately conveyed just how devoted he is to the club by handpicking some of the finest footballers to join the somewhat dwindling and forlorn side. His choices have already been glorious and displayed to fans and Premier League opposition that he is ready for battle. His facial expressions of both pain and sheer joy have readily been witnessed at matches, which suggest that Koeman is planted within his new role at the southern club, and means business. But which pairs of boots have given the most in previous weeks under Ronald’s reign?
Dušan Tadić
The Serbian starlet has shown boundless energy and creativity on the pitch already in just three weeks of play for Saints. Despite not having any goals under the midfielder’s belt, he has flown into the box on numerous occasions and been of paramount importance during countless assists (attempted or not). I’d argue he’s already been worth his fee. Not only this, I would go as far as to state that he has been such an integral player that he could have reached the trusted quality of Morgan Schneiderlin or one of the departed giants (probably one of the chaps who fled to Liverpool) already. There has not been a Gameweek in which Tadić has failed to demonstrate excellent prowess; his footballing finery is precisely what we were crying out for.
Graziano Pellè
The smooth Italian has been positive about his future at Southampton since signing on the dotted line. Koeman’s presence obviously rubs off impeccably on the players, and Pellè is no stranger to this newfound rule. He overtly possesses all necessary drive and ambition to do well and lately enjoyed his first goal, against West Ham. The spring in his step/sprint was enormous following his successful strike, and I hope Pellè can deliver many, many more. Not only does his motivation show, his great skill is unquestionable and he has real flair with the ball. Furthermore, when Pellè and Tadić fuse, the force is mighty.
Nathaniel Clyne
The 23-year-old defender has played 62* matches for Saints, but in the last 3 he has really come into his own. In Gameweek 1, he was utterly impressive; his goal in the 56th minute was staggering, but just not enough. This is not criticism; this comes from me sitting on the edge of my sofa almost pained, shrieking for more goals! Clyne could easily have snuck a hat-trick, and it was an awful shame he didn’t. For a defender to have that much control and room in the opposition’s box was startling, especially against Liverpool, but it was his desire that kept him pushing. Although, it was very encouraging for us, so I shan’t complain there. If he’s entitled that much space again, Clyne could really be placing a few more grins on expectant faces.
Morgan Schneiderlin
This is a man I’m thoroughly glad is staying put. Remaining at Southampton was an excellent choice from the Frenchman, as his technique has climbed in many ways since starting at the club. His hunger to succeed and play flawless football is not only commendable, but a habit that we really rely upon. We need to show our worth this season, with a new boss, and new players after relinquishing the majority of our decent men in the summer. Schneiderlin has almost gained himself the role of alpha male, as he remains one of the only original midfielders to enjoy the cheers of fans last season. In Gameweek 3, he stole two goals from West Ham and thus, buried the opposing side. His time as a Saint last season has probably instilled much confidence within him, whilst his World Cup bid in Brazil will have undoubtedly boosted his drive for the game additionally.
Maya Yoshida
The 26-year-old centre back has the sort of protective nature required for Southampton. He seems to flourish in the role, and has helped Fraser Forster to extinguish threats on goal many times since the beginning of the season. The Japanese defender has appeared for the club on 43* instances, and is obviously a necessary piece on the pitch. Though he wasn’t quite as sharp in my book during Gameweek 3, Yoshida was strong the first couple of weeks, despite Forster eventually conceding a goal to Liverpool.
James Ward-Prowse
Despite having 52* games to his name, the 19-year-old has been instrumental in showing fans how much pace and ambition he holds. He’s extremely eager to score, despite not having done so yet, and make his mark for the club. Regardless of his tally of balls in the back of the net, the midfielder is accurate and has been well nurtured, so this really could be his season (and I pray that it is). His keen, innovative playmaking is a credit to Southampton, and he has been somebody to help fill the gaps of prior players so far this season.
Fraser Forster
The three* matches played are those of this season; welcome aboard, Mr. Forster. The new keeper is fresh-faced and ready for all sorts of challenges; we are only just clawing back a) some sanity, and b) some accolades, so Forster knows his responsibility is to be focused and commit undivided attention to clearing the ball. Forster has previously been called up for England (that might not feel as ‘cool’ as it could sound, given recent debacles) and has shown his power in the goal for Koeman’s side; usurping Kelvin Davis could well be the next step, if it isn’t already the plan. I for one would be pleased to see Forster retain his new place beside the white posts.
*(Match statistics have been sourced from The Premier League website).
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