Saints Marching
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West Brom 1-2 Southampton: Three key takeaways

By Erik Franzo

WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Mario Lemina and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg of Southampton challenge James McClean of West Bromwich Albion during the The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round between West Bromwich Albion v Southampton at The Hawthorns on February 17, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Mario Lemina and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg of Southampton challenge James McClean of West Bromwich Albion during the The Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round between West Bromwich Albion v Southampton at The Hawthorns on February 17, 2018 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /
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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 08: Josh Sims of Southampton is chased by Mihaly Korhut of Hapoel Be’er Sheva during the UEFA Europa League Group K match between Southampton FC and Hapoel Be’er-Sheva FC at St Mary’s Stadium on December 8, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 08: Josh Sims of Southampton is chased by Mihaly Korhut of Hapoel Be’er Sheva during the UEFA Europa League Group K match between Southampton FC and Hapoel Be’er-Sheva FC at St Mary’s Stadium on December 8, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /

Josh Sims needs a chance to play

When a young player gets just a few minutes at the end of a close game you don’t expect much.

Josh Sims was thrown into that scenario, entering in the 85th minute, with a 2-1 scoreline, and the home team threatening.  However, he made a real impact.

Sims displayed intent to go forward, something the Saints side continually lacks.  He showed ability to change pace and take players on.  Burning the West Brom left-back before setting up Jame Ward-Prowse for a chance to put the game away.  Sims even closed the game out with a defensive block on James McClean cross.

Yes, he started the season injured and had to work himself back to fitness, but now he looks 100% healthy and just awaiting his chance.

The competition ahead of him is tough, and it looks like Nathan Redmond is ready to make an impact again.  However, Sims is a player who’s mentality has not been affected by the season thus far, and could be just the spark the Southampton attack needs.