Shane Long
For the second straight week Shane Long came off the bench and made a difference in the attack. Manolo Gabbiadini was left isolated for the majority of the game and lacks the pace to chase down long passes over the defense. However, this is a style of play the Irish International can handle.
He made something out of nothing chasing down a ball surely headed out of bounds. Winning a free kick in good position for his efforts after being fouled with no help around.
Long also held the ball up on a couple occasions, all alone in the attacking third, which has not been his strong suit in the past.
The Saints midfield was able to play more direct when needed because of the switch to Long. Charlie Austin eventually joined him up top as well, with arguably more success having a pair of strikers. Hopefully that gives Pellegrino an idea or two to help a struggling attack. If I were him, Long’s performance would tell me he should start as the #9 and pair with Gabbiadini instead of take his place as he has the last two weeks.