Aston Villa 1-3 Southampton: Premier League – Saints Player Ratings

Midfielders

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Centre-Midfielder – 5

Started the game much improved after a poor match versus West Ham. Broke up attacking play well and marshaled the midfield. Cannot help but shoot when the ball falls to him from a corner, but when does he hit the target? Put a poor pass to Cedric which forced Ward-Prowse into a yellow.  Should have sealed the game with a 3 on 2 counter attack, but wildly flashed the ball over the bar.

James Ward-Prowse, Centre-Midfielder – 6

Finally put a corner on a Southampton head for a Jack Stephens’ goal. Worked tirelessly linking the lines, but took a yellow courtesy of his partner Hojbjerg.  His two free kicks from good position were predictable and flat.  Still two slow in releasing his passes, but hard to fault his effort in the win.

Stuart Armstrong, Attacking-Midfielder – 7

A quiet difference-maker in the first half, linking in the outside backs through the midfield. Played a really clean game before being subbed off, likely to preserve his health. Deserves another start on Boxing Day.

Nathan Redmond, Attacking-Midfielder – 5

Curled Shane Long in with a quick pass leading to the first goal. Visibly gained confidence 3-0 up and started taking players on, then lost it again after Grealish’s goal. Should have done more with the game wide open, and his only effort fooled the fans as it hit the side net.