What a game at Wembley in the EFL Cup final! Claude Puel’s Southampton lost to Zlatan’s brace and a goal from Jesse Lingard but they were clearly the better team on the night and Gabbiadini’s disallowed goal which should have stood would only add sprinkles on the wounds. Nevertheless, it was a courageous fight that has definitely won the hearts of all and sundry.
The Best & Worst Southampton Players Rated From Their Heartbreaking EFL Cup Loss To Manchester United
GK: Fraser Forster – 4.5/10
Not his usual self at all this season and conceded poorly to Zlatan’s opener. Could have done better for the second goal as well. He really needs to step up to the big occasions.
RB: Cedric Soares – 7/10
Pushed forward threatening Manchester United every time and got into very good positions. A superb display overall.
CB: Maya Yoshida – 7/10
A terrific sliding challenge on Lingard was a display of his class and he had a decent game at the back. Has really come in handy without Van Dijk even though the Saints miss the latter very much.
CB: Jack Stephens – 6/10
Put himself in danger with studs up challenge and got booked. Nothing extraordinary otherwise.
LB: Ryan Bertrand – 7/10
Caused heavy problems with his well-timed runs and was tidy at the back as well. A brave display and needs to keep this going.
CM: Oriel Romeu – 7/10
Strong and calculative but composed as well. Unlucky to see his header hit the post but a very impressive display on the evening.
CM: Steven Davis – 7/10
Absolutely tireless in midfield and got an assist for Gabbiadini’s second. Top notch performance!
CM: James Ward-Prowse – 7.5/10
Set piece ability is an asset and his crosses, as well as vision, was unmatched on the evening. Bloody impressive without a doubt.
LW: Nathan Redmond – 7/10
Ran tirelessly and troubled united time and again. He needs to be consistent otherwise he is a fantastic player.
RW: Dusan Tadic – 6/10
Selfless display with tricks and turns but got subbed off in the second half. Can improve in the coming games.
ST: Manolo Gabbiadini – 8.5/10
Extremely unfair to have had a goal disallowed early on but what an awesome performance it was! His awareness and swift reactions were as brilliant as the runs he made. Scored two good goals and deserved a hattrick. Unlucky but promising.
