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Southampton vs West Brom: Three takeaway thoughts from Saints’ victory

By Alastair Case

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Danny Ings with his Southampton team-mates before the Premier League match between Southampton and West Bromwich Albion at St Mary's Stadium on October 04, 2020 in Southampton, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Danny Ings with his Southampton team-mates before the Premier League match between Southampton and West Bromwich Albion at St Mary's Stadium on October 04, 2020 in Southampton, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images) /
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Southampton’s Danish defender Jannik Vestergaard (L) (Photo by GLYN KIRK/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Southampton’s Danish defender Jannik Vestergaard (L) (Photo by GLYN KIRK/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /

By slightly adjusting the defensive line and personnel, Saints look a more solid proposition

After the abject performance against Spurs where Saints were caught continually out of position, Ralph Hasenhuttl has made some minor, subtle tweaks to his defence. Firstly, he has brought in Jannik Vestergaard in place of Jack Stephens, a decision which been vindicated by towering displays from the great Dane.

Vestergaard has been a revelation since being restored to the team, by providing leadership in controlling the line, as well as numerous headers, tackles and interceptions. Moreover, he looks fitter, faster and slicker in possession, thus releasing some of the pressure on Ward-Prowse and Romeu to come deep to receive the ball.

The full backs, whilst still keen to push on to offer support their wingers, are taking a more balanced position nearer to the centre backs. This minor adjustment means they are not leaving the central duo as exposed but through being selective in choosing when to attack, it creates an element of uncertainty for the opposition defence. It is worth noting that the defensive line remains high but more disciplined and better shaped to cope with the counter.

Walker-Peters offered a constant out ball down the right and the Southampton right back is becoming increasingly dependable as an attacking outlet. He is looking to be a bargain at £12 million, with some impressive interceptions capping an excellent attacking performance.

With new signing Salisu approaching full match fitness, it might be tough for the 21 year old to get into the back four initially but given the limited options available to the Southampton manager, it will be a nice dilemma to be faced with.