A 2-0 win over Newcastle United saw Southampton move to the top of the English pyramid for the first time since September 1988.
Manager Ralph Hasenhüttl hailed a “fantastic” team performance after goals from Ché Adams and Stuart Armstrong gave the Saints all three points.
Southampton Leading the Premier League Table
Highest League Position Since 1988
It’s been a dramatic turnaround for Hassenhüttl and his team. Just over a year ago, Saints were trounced 9-0 at home to Leicester City. But rather than sacking their manager, the Southampton board backed Hassenhüttl and the club are reaping the rewards.
After project restart, Saints had the third-best form in the league as they eventually ended the campaign in 11th place – 18 points clear of the bottom three.
And following a strong start to the new season, Southampton occupy the top spot in English football for the first time in 32 years. After the weekends’ action, it is highly likely they will drop down due to other results but there is a feel-good factor on the south coast.
Hassenhüttl Reacts
Speaking to the clubs’ official website, the Saints boss said: “I think it was important to show that we can win against this team – we hadn’t done it so far since I’m here, so this was the goal for today, and to show ourselves that we are one step further in our development now.
“I think you could see we had good solutions with the ball and against the ball. We were very committed and well organised.”
He added: “I’m happy for the fans. It’s a good moment to watch the table.
“If it’s only for a night, it’s still ok – it’s fantastic. We have never been there, so it’s history for them. Last year we had negative history, this year we have some positive stuff, and hopefully, there comes some more positive things.
“I must say that we have definitely learned a lot. The way we play at the moment is brave, it’s organised with a good balance of taking risks or not.
What Can Southampton Achieve This Season?
Naturally, there is a buoyant mood at the club. Although he is sidelined for 4-6 weeks, they have an in-form striker in Danny Ings, they have a strong defence and they have welcomed Theo Walcott back to his boyhood club.
Like many teams in the Premier League, Southampton are one that could push for a top-six finish or aim to reach a cup final. Given their start to the season, neither of those targets are unachievable.
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