Leicester City vs Southampton: Three Takeaway Thoughts from the Match

Leicester City's English midfielder James Maddison (R) shoots to score the opening goal of the English Premier League football match between Leicester City and Southampton at King Power Stadium in Leicester, central England on January 16, 2021. (Photo by Alex Pantling / 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 ALEX PANTLING/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /

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Jan Bednarek of Southampto (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images) /

For all the focus on Vestergaard’s absence, Jan Bednarek continues to quietly show his quality

The Polish centre back was outstanding against Leicester and made several vital interceptions to keep his side in the game. Whilst there is no doubting that Jannik Vestergaard and Kyle Walker-Peters have been been the standout performers this season, Bednarek has been quietly excellent over the last few games.

There were numerous blocks and clearances against Brendan Rogers’ side but none better than his late header off the line to prevent Barnes scoring. Given how long he has been a mainstay of the Southampton first eleven, it’s easy to forget that Bednarek is only 24 years old.

Although current defensive partner Jack Stephens was unable to match his recent performances, including his part in the victory over Liverpool, it is worth that he has been an able deputy for the missing Dane. That said, Southampton fans will be desperate for Vestergaard to return and for all of Bednarek’s brilliance, neither he or Stephens have the passing ability of Vestergaard.