Southampton 1-2 Crystal Palace: Player Ratings

6. Always gives his all for the team, and has built a good understanding with Hojbjerg protecting the back line. Helped Pied to nullify Zaha’s threat, but did leave a few late challenges on the winger. Romeu was left to do the job of two men when Pellegrino subbed Hojbjerg off, and that was a big factor in them losing control of the game.. Defensive-Midfield. Southampton. ORIOL ROMEU

6. The Dane helped to shield the defence with Oriol Romeu, but neither of them could ultimately drive their team forward to create enough meaningful attacks. An unusually boggy St Mary’s pitch did slow the home side’s passing down which could have played a part. Hojbjerg has been one of Saints’ best performers since coming back into the side and surely will keep his place in the long run.. Defensive-Midfield. Southampton. PIERRE-EMILE HOJBJERG

5. Ward-Prowse would struggle to have a significant effect on this match, but was a help in defence when tracking back. He was also subbed off part way through the second-half and, like Hojbjerg, was probably missed as Saints’ defensive shape completely went.. Right-Midfield. Southampton. JAMES WARD-PROWSE

SOFIANE BOUFAL. 5. Boufal at least tried to create some openings when running at the defence and showing trickery, but a large amount of his play was wasted. He over-complicated things too much which was ultimately a big factor in Saints not creating enough in the second-half.. Left-Midfield. Southampton

4. Another well below par display from the Serbian. Didn’t produce anything like what Saints needed from him, and lost possession far too many times. With potential signings coming in this January window, his place in the side must surely be under threat.. Attacking-Midfield. Southampton. DUSAN TADIC