A Curious Tactical Decision
Team lineups can occasionally surprise the fans but it’s safe to say that Ralph Hasenhüttl’s would have stunned most of them. Not only did the Austrian drop Alex McCarthy in favour of Angus Gunn, but he also opted to play aside without a recognized striker.
With both Charlie Austin and Michael Obafemi watching on from the bench, Nathan Redmond took up the lead role, Stuart Armstrong, and James Ward-Prowse in support.
Although the decision was a bit bizarre, it wasn’t an entirely illogical one. All of SFC’s marksman have either struggled to maintain fitness, struggled for goals or both.
The midfield is easily the best thing about the squad, with the likes of Nathan Redmond, Stuart Armstrong, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, and lately James Ward-Prowse having put in good performances during the season.
Presumably, the extra depth in midfield was meant to stifle Arsenal in the centre of the park, but also to be able to quickly transition into attack.
Hasenhüttl when for the best of both worlds approach and unfortunately it didn’t quite work out. Southampton had a few good chances, but they were unable to lock the midfield down. The Emirates side were able to play clever long-range balls into their attackers, or simply use their pace to cut through.
The Saints manager would still have benefited from the experience of Charlie Austin who is a consistent goalscorer against Arsenal. This marks the first time the striker hasn’t scored against the hosts in six Premier League meetings. (Stat via BBC Match Of The Day)
It is perplexing that the club has decided not to strengthen up front, only to have the gaffer go without a striker in the starting lineup.
It’s almost as if the 51-year-old found his options insufficient for the task at hand. If only there was something like a midseason Period, during which clubs could buy or sell players and generally freshen up the squad.
Maybe we could call it a transfer turntable, door or maybe even a window… Nah it’ll never catch on.