Southampton vs Manchester City: Three Key Saints Players

Oriol Romeu

Although there were others worthy of mention including the irrepressible Kyle Walker-Peters and the industrious James Ward-Prowse, the Spanish midfielder’s contribution often goes unsung. Guardiola was unusually generous in his praise of Romeu prior to the game but there is something remarkably unfussy about the way he goes about his business in enforcing the midfield.

Romeu was superb against City, allowing the likes of De Bruyne and Silva little time to settle and play their usual expansive game. His standard yellow aside, which means he will now be suspended for the Fulham game, he was everywhere on the pitch and has added some lovely touches on the ball.

There is a calmness on the ball, which is in stark contrast to his bustling nature off of it. With James Ward-Prowse dovetailing him around the pitch, they always provide each other an option and are fast growing into one of the most reliable midfield parings in the league.