Southampton 3-2 West Ham United: Three key players

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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Maya Yoshida of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton and Swansea City at St Mary’s Stadium on August 12, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /

Maya Yoshida

I hope Saints fans recognize the all-around performance Maya Yoshida put in on Saturday. Most notably, he forced the challenge by Pablo Zabaleta in extra time that gave Southampton the three points. However, it was his defensive effort, consistent and timely, which kept the team in the game.

Yoshida bailed his partner Jack Stephens out after just two minutes being left one-on-one near goal. He also broke up a number of attacks at midfield with his ability to anticipate long balls into Javier Hernandez.

Most importantly, he was one of the few players to show he could handle the strength of Michail Antonio. West Ham’s biggest threat going forward.

The fact is that Maya Yoshida is a professional center half. He continues to go about his business, doesn’t complain about playing time, and gives the Saints his best effort week to week. Fans need to start appreciating his performances, because he was a difference maker in a game we nearly gave away.