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Burnley 3-0 Southampton: Premier League – Three Key Players

By Erik Franzo

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton is challenged by Jack Cork of Burnley during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Southampton FC at Turf Moor on August 10, 2019 in Burnley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND - AUGUST 10: James Ward-Prowse of Southampton is challenged by Jack Cork of Burnley during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Southampton FC at Turf Moor on August 10, 2019 in Burnley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – JULY 28: Yan Valery of Southampton in action during the pre season friendly match between Feyenoord Rotterdam and Southampton Football Club at Stadion Feijenoord or De Kuip on July 28, 2019 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – JULY 28: Yan Valery of Southampton in action during the pre season friendly match between Feyenoord Rotterdam and Southampton Football Club at Stadion Feijenoord or De Kuip on July 28, 2019 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images) /

Yan Valery

At just 20 years of age, Valery showed wisdom of a seasoned vet in his performance against Burnley. He was a threat down the right wing for the entirety of the first half, nearly picking out Che Adams for an early goal.  In fact, he was so effective going forward, he completely took Dwight McNeil, Burnley’s most technical player, out of the attack.

The wing back role suits Valery to a tee, and he got himself inside the 18 more than once.  A goal-scoring threat from right back is a luxury in this league, and is a reason why switching to four in the back just does not make sense.  Yes, Valery defended his side well, as the goals came from across the pitch, but Hasenhuttl is expecting a lot out of his young Frenchman.

A sign of his maturity was late in the second half when the front three dropped its press.  Valery had a chance to press Nick Pope in possession, but instead, retreated to his position where he ultimately won the ball.  Not many 20 year olds are that savvy, and by the end of the year, he just may be the fans’ player of the season.

Next. Mario Lemina subject of interest from two European clubs. dark