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Stoke City 2-1 Southampton: Player ratings

By Erik Franzo

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Saido Berahino of Stoke City and Virgil van Dijk of Southampton compete for the ball during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Southampton at Bet365 Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Saido Berahino of Stoke City and Virgil van Dijk of Southampton compete for the ball during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Southampton at Bet365 Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /
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Goalkeeper and defenders

7.5. Forster made a couple big saves in the first half during the run of play. When Xherdan Shiqiri found himself open inside the 18, I thought we were one-nil down. Forster did give up two goals, but neither were his fault. What we all will remember is the penalty save. He guessed the right direction and parried the ball away with strength.. Goalkeeper. Southampton. FRASER FORSTER

6.5. Bertrand, like last week, was not heavily involved in the game. He came up with a couple big 1v1 blocks in the first half, proving he can still defend in a pinch. However, I rate the Saints full-backs by their attacking creation and Bertrand did not offer enough. I don’t believe it is all his fault though. Nathan Redmond continues to over-dribble and cut away from Bertrand’s over-lapping runs.. Left Full-Back. Southampton. RYAN BERTRAND

The much anticipated return of Virgil van Dijk did not disappoint. Early on he had a few wayward passes, and he did commit a penalty that I believe was harsh. The only other criticism I had was his fitness down the stretch, but that was expected. His defense tackling, and positioning were spot on, as he saved a sure chance on goal with Joe Allen threatening. Van Dijk reads the game beautifully, and adds true class to a center-back pool which is begging for a 3-5-2 formation.. Center-Back. Southampton. VIRGIL VAN DIJK. 8

7. By a center-backs standards, Yoshida did not have a great game. He was not as sharp in possession and got beaten a couple times in key areas of the field. He improved as the game wore on, but had some problems dealing with Choupo-Moting. All was forgiven though, following a highlight reel goal.. Center-Back. Southampton. MAYA YOSHIDA

CEDRIC SOARES. 6. Cedric brought some serious passion and energy to this game. He was all over the pitch and he probably burned the heat map on the right hand side. Although what is there to show for it? Other than his single cross that found Shane Long’s head, he didn’t create enough. He spoke midweek about the importance of full-backs in the Southampton attack, but he lost his composure in a couple real opportunities to give his team a chance.. Right Full-Back. Southampton