Goalkeeper, Manager and Defenders
Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager – 7.5
Early substitutions and crucial rotation of the squad were positive moves that could serve Saints well in the future.
A clear game plan that could have worked out if Saints had kept it 1-1 at half-time and not given away two relatively simple goals. City were forced to show their superb ability on the ball to play around the Saints press in their own half.
Alex McCarthy, Goalkeeper – 7
Partly criticised for letting in City’s second and third goals, but it must also be noted that the winning margin for the visitors would have been much greater without a number of vital saves from Aguero and Mahrez in particular.
Kayne Ramsay, Right-Back – 7
Thrown in at the deep end with Raheem Sterling for company and did well to keep things simple when called into action. Well covered by James Ward-Prowse.
Jack Stephens, Centre-Back – 6
Was always going to be a tough day for him and Bednarek against City and a different four-man setup to contend with.
Jan Bednarek, Centre-Back – 6.5
Amazing turnaround in becoming one the first-choice defenders for Saints now and put in some crucial blocks and tackles here.
Lack of communication between him and Targett to allow Aguero to score.
Matt Targett, Left-Back – 5.5
Previously reliable but now cannot be trusted unfortunately. City were just too quick for him and Ryan Bertrand really should return to the side when ready.