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Southampton 0-2 Watford: Three key players

By Erik Franzo

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 09: Andre Gray of Watford takes on Cedric Soares and Ryan Bertrand of Southampton in action during the Premier League match between Southampton and Watford at St Mary's Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 09: Andre Gray of Watford takes on Cedric Soares and Ryan Bertrand of Southampton in action during the Premier League match between Southampton and Watford at St Mary's Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /
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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Southampton’s Jack Stephens during the Premier League match between Southampton and Swansea City at St Mary’s Stadium on August 12, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Southampton’s Jack Stephens during the Premier League match between Southampton and Swansea City at St Mary’s Stadium on August 12, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images) /

Jack Stephens

Getting his fourth consecutive league start, Stephens showed Mauricio Pellegrino has a lot of confidence in him.

He began the game very well breaking up two potential through passes with sliding interceptions. More impressively he showed good strength by dealing with consistent threats from Andre Gray and Nathan Chalobah.

Neither goal against was a result of his play. Both shots even came from Wesley Hoedt’s side of the field. Stephens displayed great coverage for Cedric Soares who was high up the pitch late in the game.

What should not be overlooked is his competitiveness. He gets in to challenges and is not afraid to let an opponent know his presence.

From the moment Virgil van Dijk got hurt last season, Stephens has stepped in and shown consistent improvement. This week’s performance was just another reason why he should be the first choice center back in a deep position pool for the Saints.