Southampton have always been known for their ability to groom unknown talents to stars. While the last season saw a bit of slump following their high finish in the league table, the South Coast club have taken initiatives to get back the form by making some star signings.
In new boss Mauricio Pellegrino, the Saints have a boss who can get the best out of every player.
Defence
The position between the sticks should be taken by Fraser Forster. Hands down, the English shot stopper has been one of the most consistent performers for the Saints in the last few seasons. The gigantic frame has saved the Saints some very important games and has kept his composure in the opening games of the season.
The Virgil van Dijk issue has been one of the most talked about subject in the past three months and credit must be given to the South Coast club for their immense determination to hold on to the world class defender. However, with the player not being allowed to leave for a bigger side after he handed in a transfer request to the could severely backfire and the manager will have to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Pellegrini has mostly used youngster Jack Stephens alongside the reliable Maya Yoshida at his central defence. Van Dijk was playing the waiting game so far with his future uncertain. Now, with those matters resolved, we expect him to pair up with new signing and compatriot Wesley Hoedt.
The former Serie A defender is one of the key signings for the Saints this summer. While fans found it hard to believe that he had come as an upgrade to the back line rather than Van Dijk’s replacement, it turns out the club was stating the truth. 21-year-old Jan Bednarek is expected to remain on the fringes for now.
The defensive flanks will be Cedric Soares and Ryan Bertrand. Both the players have been in the demand over the summer and has been significant to Southampton’s attack with their pace and movements.
Midfield
Midfield was a key area for Southampton’s top half finish last season. In the likes of Oriol Romeu and Steven Davis, Claude Puel had reliable players who have been a lynchpin to their key transition from defence to attack. While they have been consistent this season too, the arrival of Mario Lemina from Juventus is expected to make a huge difference at St. Mary’s this season.
The number 10 position is likely to be taken up by the mercurial Dusan Tadic. The Serbian international has shown glimpses of brilliance last season and Pellegrino would hope he keeps finding the key passes from the central role.
Attack
The wings will be taken by Nathan Redmond and Sofiane Boufal. Both are young and brilliant swift in their movements. Their deliveries from wide areas could create problems for opponents and having Manolo Gabbiadini as centre forward could reap Southampton the fruits.
