It’s been a mixed start for Manolo Gabbiadini, our most prolific striker thus far but having been on the bench three times in the league so far this season (four times including the cup game with Wolves).
It was somewhat peculiar when the Italian lost his place to Shane Long for three league games but he’s since started the last two, scoring a brace of goals against Newcastle. At times he’s looked somewhat lost but he’s undoubtedly our most potent threat in front of goal.
With three goals to his name thus far (one against West Ham and two against Newcastle), Gabbiadini averages a league goal every two starts which is a statistic that really proves to Pellegrino that he needs to be starting matches.
The 25-year-old has also made a few appearances for Italy in their world cup qualifying campaign but it’s mainly been cameo appearances if not warming the Azzuri bench.
According to Saints’ official website, Gabbiadini has a shot to goal conversion rate of 25%, only bettered by Charlie Austin in the striker department who has had just three shots this season.
Furthermore, Austin’s goal was a penalty and Gabbiadini has two goals from the run of play so overall it seems that the former-Napoli man is the best forward the team currently has.
Gabbiadini has also shown his qualities deeper on the pitch in an advanced midfield role, whether breaking as part of a counter attack or supporting a fellow striker.
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One moment that stands out is the wonder-strike he produced against West Ham which rattled against the crossbar, an effort that really did deserve a goal.
Overall, it’s been a positive start for the Italian with room for improvement. It’s clear that he’s our best chance of putting the ball into the back of the net on a more regular basis whether he’s doing it himself or assisting his team mates and Pellegrino must know that he has to start each match!