Forwards and Substitutes
Nathan Redmond, Forward-7
Redmond has quickly become Southampton’s most consistent performer. His contribution at Craven cottage proved to be the crucial difference maker. After driving at the hosts back line the number 22 then played an excellent ball into the back post. Michael Obafemi arrived on the scene to fire home.
Sadly, for the attacker his night ended abruptly, after going down in front of goal. Although the Englishman made it off the pitch without the assistance of a stretcher, it was a disappointing end to Redmond’s cup tie.
Michael Obafemi, Striker- 7
Much like Redmond it was a mixed evening for Obafemi. The Striker showed good awareness, arriving at the back stick just in time to seal the deal. Unfortunately, Obafemi’s game was also ended early due to injury concerns. However, speaking after the match Hasenhuttl revealed it may actually be just cramp. Quoted in the Daily Echo the manager pointed out: “I don’t know if he’s injured or had just a little bit of cramp in the hamstrings.”. The boss then confusingly added: “He was not injured. He scored an important goal for us.”
Danny Ings, Substitute- 7
With 20 minutes of game time to his credit, Danny Ings worked hard for little reward. The Striker burst into the box on several occasions. If it wasn’t for a smart save from Rodák than the former Liverpool man would have found his name on the score sheet.
Maya Yoshida, Substitute- 7
The hosts offered virtually nothing during the second half making for a very straightforward half an hour for the Japanese international.
Shane Long, Substitute- 6.5
coming off the bench for the final 15 minutes of play, Long acquitted himself well but in typical fashion struggle to find the net. The frontman’s best moment came as the Irishman set Ings away after winning an aerial battle. In his worst incident, the attacker managed to miss from about six yards out. Long fired the ball high and wide. The shot may have been on a slight angle, but the number seven would be expected to do far better than he managed.