Southampton: 2017/18 half-season review – Ryan Bertrand
By Erik Franzo
Just past the midway point of the 2017/18 season and the January transfer deadline, it appears Ryan Bertrand will remain with Southampton, at least until the summer. However, at 28 years old, and arguably in the prime of his career, how has the England International performed for the Saints thus far?
Bertrand remains one of the best outside backs in the Premier League. A prototypical left wing-back with the desire to go forward, he brings experience and class to the Southampton lineup. However, as many want-away Saints before him, his desire to play at a “big club” is well known.
There were summer rumours of an eminent departure to Manchester City, and those have not yet gone away. Chelsea and Everton, although unlikely destinations, have recently been linked this winter. The Virgil van Dijk record sale having fueled the fire, potentially driving up the price of the in-form left back.
The commitment has been the only question mark surrounding Bertrand’s season. He continues to give solid performances on both ends of the pitch, displaying attacking flair when Mauricio Pellegrino deploys five at the back. Playing at a noticeably higher level when paired with Sofiane Boufal, over the under-performing Nathan Redmond.
His best game of the season came against Everton in the 4-1 win. Assisting twice to Dusan Tadic and Charlie Austin. However, along with the rest of his teammates, the offensive output has been limited by team tactics.
Defensively, he can be overlooked, but he continues to get the job done. Bertrand was fantastic in the Manchester City game, going toe to toe with Raheem Sterling for most of the contest.
Using premierleague.com statistics page to compare 2016/17 to the first half of 17/18, provides further evidence of Bertrand’s qualities.
- Tackle success is up from 62% to 78%
- 5 blocked shots compared to 6 all last season
- Won 11 – 50/50’s – compared to 14 all last season
- Cross accuracy is up from 15% to 21%
- Cross total at 73 compared to 99 all last season
- Passes per match up from 46.68 to 48.16
*Stats from 19 League appearances – Bertrand appeared in 28 games in 2016/17
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Bertrand’s body language has been inconsistent, and the want-away mentality has led to his only criticism thus far. Watching games closely, the argument has been made that he is not having fun. However, his time-wasting video against Bournemouth, which was a big hit, shows a different side.
What Southampton player is having a good time right now? Goal differential keeps the team out of the relegation zone, and a 1-0 win against a Championship side was the team’s only win in 10 games.
Yes, there are capable replacements behind Bertrand in Matt Targett and Sam McQueen, but they do not have the same level of experience. Mauricio Pellegrino has had a lot of question marks regarding his preferred starting eleven, but Bertrand is not one of them. If he is fit, he is in the side, and his first half warrants that decision.
Could Southampton get more out of Bertrand, yes, but Saints fans know we can get more out of every player on the team. The only issue with the England International is keeping him motivated through the end of the season.
However, Ryan Bertrand’s second half could already be decided.
Stuck in Southampton until the summer + Fighting relegation + Pellegrino negative tactics = disgruntled want-away left back. The saving grace, you know he wants a World Cup 2018 roster spot.