Forwards
Danny Ings – 10
To say that Ings is brimming with confidence currently, fails to do him justice. He was everywhere at Vicarage Road and it didn’t take long for him to register his 17th league goal of the campaign. A neat ball from Smallbone was collected by Ings, as he moved infield and set himself for a sumptuous curled shot that left Foster stranded.
A calamitous throw from Foster then offered Ings a second, which the Saints forward gleefully dispatched with the aid of a slight but fortuitous deflection. The goal came after an extended period of pressure from Watford at the start of the second half but once Ings ran at the Watford defence, the outcome never seemed in doubt.
Ings has had so many impressive performances for Saints this season but it is hard to think of a more complete showing. It was not just the goals that marked him out but also the industry, the vision and just the sheer joie de vivre that he exudes. Can he win the Premier League Golden Boot? You wouldn’t bet against him.
Shane Long – 7
Another Southampton player caught in the wars against a physical Watford side, Long worked tirelessly in typical fashion to create space for Ings and Redmond. He did get the odd chance himself, including a first half effort which he did well to volley on target.
Eventually subbed for Che Adams, he ran the channels and offered himself as a willing runner throughout. In the wake of his new contract, Southampton fans will be happy to have a player who works so readily and selflessly for the team stay committed for an additional two years.
Substitutes
Stuart Armstrong – 8.5
Brought on to replace a largely ineffectual Smallbone, who had been isolated on the right, the in form Scot immediately provided energy and a creative spark that had been lacking.
Armstrong doesn’t even have to play exceptionally well to improve the players around him, with his intelligent running and infectious enthusiasm for being in possession of the ball. The former Celtic man has the potential to become one of the best acquisitions in Southampton’s recent transfer history.
There is so much to admire about the way he plays; although he may not quite possess the technical ability of Adam Lallana, there are certain resemblances which are pleasing. Armstrong’s desire to receive the ball in tight areas, to find little pockets of space and the ability to pass or shoot with either foot are reminiscent of former fan favourite Lallana.
Che Adams – 7
Anyone connected with Southampton had a brief moment of hope crushed when Adams’ late shot cannoned off the inside of Ben Fosters leg and agonisingly past the post. Nevertheless Adams looked sharp and eager after replacing Shane Long.
A bustling run looked to have ended his goal drought after his change of pace got him in behind the Watford left back and whilst he was left waiting for that precious moment, he was impressive in his short cameo. With Southampton’s safety effectively confirmed now, Adams might be rewarded with a few starts as Hasenhuttl looks to next season.