Southampton: Youngsters to watch for the 2019/20 campaign

The 20-year-old midfielder clearly impressed Ralph Hasenhuttl early doors as he was selected in a number of match day squads, and has featured for the first team three times at the point of writing – plus seven times for the U23’s in the EFL cup.

For that reason it could be argued that Slattery should’ve been chosen as the expected choice, but for reasons such as depth of the squad in the attacking midfield position; his selection as a potential impact on the squad seems more fitting.

Southampton already have James Ward-Prowse, Nathan Redmond, Moussa Djenepo, Stuart Armstrong, Josh Sims, Sofiane Boufal and Mohamed Elyounoussi higher in the pecking order and therefore unless Slattery shows serious improvement over the summer, or Southampton shift some players; both somewhat likely, then this situation will stay the same.

To put his stats into context, Slattery has put in some decent numbers whilst playing in a red and white shirt. In 75 games, that include Premier League and EFL cup appearances, the young midfielder has scored nine goals and assisted eight; meaning he averages goal involvement every 4.4 games.

Including the same reasons that were mentioned in Jake Vokins case, Slattery will now have the opportunity to work closer to Ralph Hasenhuttl and first-team peers such as James Ward-Prowse and Stuart Armstrong; who both boast a similar playing style to the 20-year-old.

The only question marks over his involvement this campaign are potential loan-deals away from the club for progression purposes, and contract running out at the end of the upcoming campaign in 2020; mean that Southampton might not want to commit game-time if Slattery was to decide to move onto different pastures.