Southampton 0-0 Burnley: Three key takeaways – 12/08/18

Double Substitution

Both Claude Puel and Mauricio Pellegrino had a knack of frustrating fans by sticking rigidly to a starting formation and making substitutions too late in the game.

Judging by the reaction of the fans in the stadium and online, Hughes’ decision to make a double substitution after only 55 minutes was refreshingly popular. Not only did he introduce two new signings in Danny Ings and Mohamed Elyounoussi, he switched the formation to a more balanced 4-4-2.

And the changes made an instant difference. Not only was there more attacking impetus in the side, individual performances improved too. In particular, Nathan Redmond and Mario Lemina both became more effective, with the former worrying the tiring defence with his direct running and the latter beginning to control the play from the centre of midfield.

Whether this change was always part of Hughes’ game plan is unclear. His hand appeared to have been at least partially forced following a knock to Stuart Armstrong that required him to be substituted. But rather than replace like-for-like, Hughes chose to mix things up to good effect.

The real question is whether the manager will line up with three at the back again next weekend, or retain the formation that made the last 30 minutes of this match much more positive.