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

By Nikos Lemanis

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 12: Mario Lemina of Southampton has a header saved during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Burnley FC at St Mary's Stadium on August 12, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 12: Mario Lemina of Southampton has a header saved during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Burnley FC at St Mary's Stadium on August 12, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /
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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Chris Wood of Burnley is challenged by Jannik Vestergaard of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Burnley FC at St Mary’s Stadium on August 12, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Chris Wood of Burnley is challenged by Jannik Vestergaard of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Burnley FC at St Mary’s Stadium on August 12, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /

The New Boys

Beyond the community of Saints fans, Southampton’s transfer dealings have largely fallen under the media radar. Although the club has spent more on signings than we are accustomed to, there haven’t been any marquee arrivals, and other clubs have stolen the summer limelight.

If performances today are anything to go by, that might change soon. The new recruits who featured today all had positive starts to their Southampton careers, with a couple really catching the eye.

Although forced off with a knock just before the hour mark, Stuart Armstrong was easily the best Saints player in the opening 45 minutes. He looked positive and intelligent, and fans will be hoping that his injury is minor enough to shake off before next weekend.

Ings and Elyounoussi both looked motivated and energetic after their introduction in the second half. The former in particular caused a number of problems for the defence, and seems really fired up following his deadline day move.

But for me the stand out performer was Jannik Vestergaard. He looked a different player to the one who took part in the final pre-season friendly last week, and made some vital interceptions, tackles and clearances when it mattered. His set piece presence in the opposition box was also notable, even if he failed to convert today.

The big Dane still has a bit to learn about life in the Premier League, but if he can build on his opening day performance then perhaps he can be the replacement for Virgil Van Dijk that we have all been waiting for.