Newcastle 3-0 Southampton: Three key players 10/3/2018

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NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MARCH 10: Nathan Redmond of Southampton takes on Matt Ritchie of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton at St. James Park on March 10, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

Southampton fans who took the long trip up to Newcastle were rewarded with one of the worst performances of the season and an even longer trip home.

On loan from Chelsea, Kenedy scored just after the opening minute, and Newcastle United never looked back.

Mario Lemina made a mistake on top of the Newcastle penalty area that resulted in a counter attack and the second goal. To make matters worse, arguably the Saints best player this season, was taken off at half time for suspected “lack of spirit.”

Mauricio Pellegrino continues to believe he can turn things around, but the team is clearly not responding to the manager. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s post game interview summed up the emotions of all supporters, but it is hard to believe all the players are reacting the same way.

The 3-0 thrashing leaves Southampton a point above relegation, depending on the Manchester City/Stoke City result on Monday.

With a FA Cup game at Wigan, and another six-pointer to follow at West Ham, many would agree it is do or die time for the Saints.

Here are the three key players from the game. See if you agree.