Sheffield United 0-1 Southampton: Premier League – Player Ratings

Midfielders

Oriol Romeu, Central Midfield – 8

Colossal showing from the Spanish midfielder against the Blades. A contender for man of the match, Romeu covered a lot of ground and is beginning to look like the player who was so imperious in 17/18.

Few players do the simple things as well as Romeu and whilst it isn’t always pretty to watch, he’s gone from a peripheral figure under Hughes to a viral cog in Hasenhuttl’s machine.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Central Midfield – 6

Outshone by his midfield partner, Hojbjerg was still an important part of Southampton’s win in South Yorkshire in a week where his gaffer has challenged him to sign a new contract.

Feisty and hard working as always, the skipper did not shy away from the midfield battles and shielded his defence well. Could have done better in possession but Hasenhuttl will be pleased with his energy.

James Ward-Prowse, Midfield – 6

Another player shuffled around by the manager during the game, Southampton’s longest serving player lacked the impact witnessed during his golden spell last season. Could have given a penalty away for a handball, he nevertheless worked hard when moved to right wing back but it would be naive to suggest he is a long term answer defensively.

With Boufal, Djenepo and Adams playing well, not to mention Redmond due to come back, chances will be few and far between for Ward-Prowse further forward. Hasenhuttl is keen on what he offers, especially with his work rate and set piece skills but it hard to see him reproducing his last season form when he plays so deep.

Moussa Djenepo, Attacking Midfield – 8

Just sneaks man of the match over Romeu and Bednarek for his gloriously taken finish which ultimately proved decisive in a narrow game. The composure and determination shown for his 66th minute goal was astonishing. The Mane comparisons will be inevitable but with two fine finishes in just three matches, there is a lot to be excited about offensively.

With Boufal also in excellent form, it is up to Hasenhuttl to challenge his wingers to determine more games and contribute goals to support Adams, Ings and Redmond. Would have scored higher but for his efforts at left wing back which left a lot to be desired.

Hasenhuttl now has a decision to make about playing players in their favoured positions – Djenepo looks uncomfortable in the unfamiliar left wing back role and if nothing else, why would you want to temper his attacking prowess?

Sofiane Boufal, Attacking Midfield – 7.5

This is the Boufal that Southampton shelled out for in the summer of 2016. Finally, under Hasenhuttl’s stewardship, the Moroccan maestro is showing his worth with his exciting, direct and unpredictable brand of football.

As with Djenepo and Redmond, this could be a season where attacking midfielders chip in with a multitude of goals compared to the relatively barren return from the last few years.

Sheffield United couldn’t deal with his majestic footwork and it would have been a travesty if Boufal had ended up on the losing side. Unlucky not to score, there will be goals this season if he can stay motivated and injury free.