It might be a harsh opinion given Southampton’s current performances. But new additions come January might help in killing off teams to prevent losing points like against Arsenal.
With Austin being that important, but being unable to finish the game, and having a very bad injury record. It would be risky to not add another striker that could take the burden off his shoulders if such was to happen. Not someone to directly replace him but another option that could step up.
It would prevent Southampton from having to drop deep to retain the ball like with Arsenal on Sunday. Or for more goals to be scored later in the game when Austin has come off the field, as other strikers seem to not be providing this.
There are more areas that the squad could do with investment. Those being wide midfield, goalkeeper and centre back with the possible departure of Virgil van Dijk. The performance against Arsenal and to add City highlight that Southampton still lack some resistance, which could potentially be fixed with the addition of some new players.