After last weekend’s disappointing loss to Hull away, another international break has come around and 12 Southampton players have been called up for their respective nations.
These players are representing a multitude of countries in both international friendlies and World Cup Qualifiers. The rest of the squad remained in Southampton and have been in training.
Here are the 12 players who are away on international duty: Virgil van Dijk/Jordy Clasie (Netherlands), James Ward-Prowse/Nathan Redmond/Jack Stephens (England Under-21), Maya Yoshida (Japan), Steven Davis (Northern Ireland), Pierre-Emile Højbjerg (Denmark), Ryan Bertrand (England), Dušan Tadić (Serbia), Sofiane Boufal (Morocco), and José Fonte (Portugal).
The Saints faithful had the chance to see a few of their own players up close during the break as the England U-21 side faced Italy U-21 at St. Mary’s. James Ward-Prowse, Nathan Redmond, and Jack Stephens all were in England’s starting XI and all played a part in the match.
After taking an early lead, the first half ended with Italy leading 2-1. England eventually came back to win 3-2. Jack Stephens scored the winning goal which was assisted by James Ward-Prowse.
#SaintsFC's @Prowsey16 reflects on a 'special feeling' after leading out England Under-21s at St Mary's: https://t.co/jC7U6zkIeA
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) November 11, 2016
Stephens was also ecstatic after the match.
"“It’s an unbelievable feeling – to score for your country is big enough as it is, but to do it in front of our home fans on my home ground is amazing,” Stephens said. “It couldn’t have turned out any better. I’m delighted and I just can’t stop smiling… I don’t score many, so I have to enjoy it when I do score. It’s my first England goal and the winner as well, so it was just incredible.”"
Next: Southampton: Claude Puel Proud, But Focused on Next Match
The last international fixtures for some of the Saints will be on Tuesday, November 15. Upon returning back to Southampton, the squad will be tasked with preparing for a few tough fixtures. The Saints are set to face Liverpool at home next weekend, followed by three more fixtures before the month ends.
The end of November will present a tough spell for the Saints. As these international fixtures play out, all Southampton supporters will have their fingers crossed that the players stay healthy.