Southampton 3-1 Sheffield United: Three Match Takeaway thoughts

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JULY 26: Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager of Southampton celebrates with Alex McCarthy after the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Sheffield United at St Mary's Stadium on July 26, 2020 in Southampton, England. Football Stadiums around Europe remain empty due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in all fixtures being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Andrew Boyers/Pool via Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JULY 26: Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager of Southampton celebrates with Alex McCarthy after the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Sheffield United at St Mary's Stadium on July 26, 2020 in Southampton, England. Football Stadiums around Europe remain empty due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in all fixtures being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Andrew Boyers/Pool via Getty Images)
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Southampton’s English midfielder Che Adams celebrates (Photo by ANDREW BOYERS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Southampton’s English midfielder Che Adams celebrates (Photo by ANDREW BOYERS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Che Adams is starting to demonstrate his potential

It would be fair to say that it has been a baptism of fire for the 24-year-old since his move to Southampton last summer from the Midlands. There has been no question about the endeavour shown by Adams, but goals have been hard to come by.

That said, Adams has displayed a new-found confidence in front of goal since his opportunistic strike against Manchester City and his double against Sheffield United takes him to four goals since the restart in June. More importantly, there is evidence that an understanding is developing between Adams and his senior strike partner, Danny Ings.

Adams’ equaliser against the Blades was smartly taken after he latched onto a through ball and ruthlessly blasted his shot past Dean Henderson. The powerful run, the strength to push off the defender and his confident finish will have pleased his manager and with eight weeks to prepare for next season, there is plenty of time to develop the promise shown.

With Southampton desperate to push up the table next season, it is imperative that Ings has other players around him to share the burden of scoring goals. Adams has talked optimistically about wanting to winning the league with Southampton and whilst that might be a tad improbable, targeting an Europa League spot is certainly feasible.

On paper, Adams looks a decent prospect; he possesses pace, brute strength and a powerful shot, as well as an eye for finding team mates. If he can maintain his current form and confidence into next season, there is no reason why he cannot propel Saints further up the table.