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Southampton: Gabbiadini may have to take his chance this Monday

By Chris Hughes

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 01: Manolo Gabbiadini of Southampton arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Southampton FC at Selhurst Park on September 1, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 01: Manolo Gabbiadini of Southampton arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Southampton FC at Selhurst Park on September 1, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /
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With Charlie Austin and Shane Long doubtful for this Monday’s  game against Brighton, it could be the Italian’s time to shine.

The game against Brighton is the perfect match-up for the Saints to continue their rich vein of form, having defeated the Seagulls in the Carabao Cup just over a fortnight ago.

Mark Hughes is hopeful Ings will be fit to lead the line although in recent times the Welshman has deployed two forwards, meaning he may be forced to play Gabbiadini who has been used sparingly this season so far.

Some supporters have claimed that the ex-Napoli man would thrive in a partnership with Ings, with the latter’s pace having the potential to work well alongside the technical Gabbiadini.

If the Italian is given the chance he could easily stake his claim for the weeks to come, which include some other must-win games.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Manolo Gabbiadini of Southampton celebrates as he scores their second goal during the EFL Cup Final match between Manchester United and Southampton at Wembley Stadium on February 26, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Manolo Gabbiadini of Southampton celebrates as he scores their second goal during the EFL Cup Final match between Manchester United and Southampton at Wembley Stadium on February 26, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /

Gabbiadini has struggled when leading the line solo but if he has the opportunity to fall deeper he could have a great effect on the game, as Ings will attempt to get in behind whenever he can.

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The Seagulls have struggled for consistent form this season and the Italian’s ability to exploit space made by his teammates could see the Saints come away with an all-important three points – something we haven’t seen enough this season.

The Saints have just four points to their name from four games played having lost 2-1 to both Everton and Leicester – but seven points from 15 would make for much more positive reading for the supporters.

With Dusan Tadic having been sold over summer to Ajax, there’s a debate that Gabbiadini could now be the Saints’ most technical player – the only trouble is getting the best out of the forward.

However allowing the Southampton man to come deep without compromising the side’s attacking threat could be just the way. Ings is the perfect partner to do that with and the match against Brighton is the perfect occasion – he just needs to take his chance.