Salisu Won’t Start Until Matchweek 8
Everyone wants to see Ralph’s shiny new toy in action, but there are many reasons to suggest we may have to wait to see Mohammed Salisu in the Southampton starting eleven.
First, we must consider the time required to get up to speed in the Premier League combined with Hasenhuttl’s demands. Ralph requires fitness of the highest level, work ethic expectations through the roof, and an understanding of a pressing system that can expose unfocused Vestergaards, I mean, centre-backs. Salisu arrived in Southampton weeks ago, and undoubtedly has all the learning tools needed to get up to speed, but the on-the-field work is required to show he is ready. Mix in a 14 day quarantine, albeit during Holiday, the Ghanian centre-back may need to shake some rust before mixing in with the first team.
Secondly, one has to believe the centre-back position is Jack Stephens and Jan Bednarek’s to lose. Both players earned their roles and formed a partnership many managers would be wary to disrupt. It would take an injury to either to not start them for the first five games. Even in a horrid start, with which a favorable schedule seems unlikely, it would be hard to envision Ralph benching either player. Bednarek started every single match under Hasenhuttl until injury hit him and Stephens was by far the most improved player in the team during the 2019-20 campaign. Yes, Salisu is the centre-back of the future, but in the present, he is going to have to patiently await his opportunity.
Finally, something tells me Hasenhuttl learned from his early introduction of Che Adams. Southampton fans rarely talk about the beginning of last season where Adams was clearly favoured over Ings. The adjustment period needed for Adams was a lesson for the Austrian leader. Hence, the first bold prediction is Mohammed Salisu will be handed his Premier League debut at St. Mary’s week 8 while hosting Newcastle United.