Villa vs Southampton: Key Players in Saints Victory

Southampton's English midfielder James Ward-Prowse (R) scores their third goal directly from a free kick during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Southampton at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England on November 1, 2020. (Photo by Michael Steele / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by MICHAEL STEELE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /

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BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 01: Jannik Vestergaard of Southampton celebrates after scoring /

Jannik Vestergaard

A fine performance from the Danish centre back was capped with another goal but one suspects he will be more satisfied with the second half block he made to deny a powerful shot from a Villa forward. It undoubtedly prevented a goal and was typical of his all-round performance and willingness to put his body on the line.

Oft much maligned in the past, Vestergaard is fast becoming a fan favourite, with his stylish passing demonstrating that he is much more than just a powerful centre back. He was dominant in the air and provided a reliable out-ball to Alex McCarthy as Saints sought to play out from the back.

Although Saints looked more vulnerable once Bednarek went off injured, Vestergaard marshalled the defence well and is becoming a natural leader at the back. He was known for contributing goals during his stint in the Bundesliga and with two goals already in just six appearances this season, Hasenhuttl will be keen to further exploit the aerial threat of the tallest outfield player in top

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