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Southampton vs. Aston Villa: Premier League – Saints Player Ratings

By Erik Franzo

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 30: Danny Ings of Southampton reacts after his goal is ruled offside during the Premier League match between Southampton and Aston Villa at St Mary's Stadium on January 30, 2021 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 Michael Steele/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 30: Danny Ings of Southampton reacts after his goal is ruled offside during the Premier League match between Southampton and Aston Villa at St Mary's Stadium on January 30, 2021 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 Michael Steele/Getty Images) /
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Stuart Armstrong of Southampton (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
Stuart Armstrong of Southampton (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images) /

Midfielders

Ibrahima Diallo, Centre-Midfielder – 6

Earned his way into Ralph’s starting lineup, perhaps with a hint of help from Yan Valery.  Looked a little light compared to the professionals around him centrally, but was quick with his first touch.  Lacked incisiveness in his forward passing, especially in good moments of transition.  A worrying sign to see him limp off the field before the hour mark as he was really building up a head of steam.

Oriol Romeu, Centre-Midfielder – 9

Looked very sharp with his early passing.  Slipped Walcott and Armstrong into good positions and even created some space 20 yards out off the dribble.  Displayed his weak-footed striking technique with a sitter to row zed.  Won the ball back in good position routinely, but the players in front of him were too slow to create opportunities.  Was absolutely massive in ball recovery and tracking back to goal.  Although he will have broke many hearts as he was unable to finish in his first game back from injury.

Stuart Armstrong, Attacking-Midfielder – 6

Two poor giveaways in acres of space started his evening.  Should have taken his first chance better, but a blocked ball by Matty Cash’s hand was good enough for VAR.  Found the ball in good position on the left side numerous times, but nothing ever seemed to develop.  Briefly dropped centrally when Diallo had to exit.  Curled a real good chance to equalise far outside the post.  As the game wore on he disappeared and with all the injuries his legs are diamonds.

Theo Walcott, Attacking-Midfielder – 5

Romeu played a beauty of a 1-2 with him in which he could have picked out Redmond for a shot.  Some quality pressing on Ralph’s line earned him praise from his manager.  Couldn’t really create opportunities for the third straight game and his left hamstring appeared to give out at the hour.  His need for rest was confirmed by injury and with the way he walked off it could be significant.