Stoke City 2-1 Southampton: Player ratings

7.5. If you are blaming Long for the lack of goals, you are mistaken. Butland made a great save on him in the first half. However, he needed to get a Soares cross on target in the second 45. He continues to operate all alone up top, chasing down lost causes. The problem is he is consistently winning balls with his teammates 20 yards away. His work rate is incredibl. Long chased a Stoke player into the defensive half and won a free kick in stoppage time. How many stikers do that? I just cannot understand why Pellegrino won’t pair him with Gabbiadini in the starting eleven.. Striker. Southampton. SHANE LONG

7. Boufal had a strong impact as first off the bench. He looked dangerous on the ball and created the chance that led to the Yoshida goal. After being left off the team entirely against Manchester United, it was good to see him back.. Attacking-Midfielder. Southampton. SOFIANE BOUFAL

6. Gabbiadini’s runs off the ball continue to confuse his teammates. He also looks to have lost some confidence losing his spot to Shane Long. I thought for sure he would score when Bertand found him the ball at the near post, but his form is just not where it was last season.. Striker. Southampton. MANOLO GABBIADINI

Austin was the late sub following Peter Crouch giving Stoke City the lead. A couple of times the ball was floated up to him in the box, and I thought, just maybe, Charlie could provide us some late magic. In reality, his role on the team is hanging by a thread, and although I understand his addition when we need a goal, I don’t have the confidence he will get us one.. Striker. Southampton. CHARLIE AUSTIN. 5