Southampton 3-1 Sheffield United: Three Match Takeaway thoughts

Where now?

Ralph Hasenhuttl has masterminded an extraordinary turnaround at St Mary’s following that fateful night at St Mary’s in October. There was a significant section of the fan base clamouring for his dismissal amidst the usual media frenzy. Ironically, a fascinating statistic doing the rounds on social media illustrates that since the Leicester defeat, Southampton have actually amassed more points than Brendan Rodgers’ side (source: Opta).

Moreover, since the restart, only the Manchester clubs have recorded more points than Saints and whilst the South Coast side are not consistently at the level of the big six teams, there is a sense that there is room for Hasenhuttl to develop this team further. The Austrian manager’s impressive record with RB Leipzig should give hope to all those connected with Southampton that he can elevate their position.

Hasenhuttl took Leipzig to 2nd in the Bundesliga in 2016/17 and although it might be a task of Herculean proportions for that be emulated at Southampton, mirroring his subsequent finish of 6th in his second season with the German club is certainly a more realistic ambition. A strong transfer window will be fundamental to realising the dream of a top half finish, with completing the deal for Walker-Peters and Salisu the immediate priorities, along with finding another central midfielder.

Shifting the deadwood at the club is also essential, with the likes of Hoedt and Lemina expected to leave. The latter is undoubtedly a talented midfielder on his day but his attitude does not appear to fit with the mentality demanded by Hasenhuttl. It will be interesting to see whether goalkeeper on loan Fraser Forster is moved on or whether Saints will look to reintegrate him into the first team squad at the expense of the unconvincing Angus Gunn.

Is a top half finish realistic? Certainly based on the recent displays, which included a win against Man City and a draw at Old Trafford. Saints have also registered impressive wins against Leicester, Spurs and Chelsea this season but will need to significantly improve their home form if they want to challenge for a top seven finish. Either way, the scene is set for an exciting couple of years at St Mary’s.