Southampton 1-1 Manchester United: Premier League – Player Ratings
By Erik Franzo
Manager, Goalkeeper and Defenders
Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager – 8
An unchanged side in a deep squad was worrying to Saints fans, but his team performed in the 1st half. Made an early sub as Walcott was not contributing to the attack as he added Bednarek to keep the lead. His final two subs were both relevant and timely, and if Armstrong buries his opportunity, Saints win the game. Ralph out crew will have little to complain about today as his team held firm after giving up the lead.
Alex McCarthy, Goalkeeper – 5
A confident punch from a corner and out-jumping Pogba on a lofted ball were his opening highlights. Got down low for a key save on a Matic header. Getting boxed out by Martial on corners simply cannot happen. Salisu certainly obstructed his view, but he has to do better on Greenwood’s goal.
Romain Perraud, Left-Back – 6
Is a pest to opposing attackers, always scraping down their heels. Going to have to learn when to get into opponents and when to take a step back because PL players will feel his presence and drop to the ground. Tried to sprint forward, but his timing was off, although he did open Moussa up 1 on 1 with a slick pass. Kyle Walker-Peters took over for the final 10 plus minutes likely for a combination of tactics and freshness.
Mohammed Salisu, Centre-Back – 7
An early block on Pogba and scramble on the goal line were positive, but he didn’t look confident in possession and wasn’t taking direction from his captain to shift the play. Sound in most defensive opportunities and improved upon his week 1 performance.
Jack Stephens, Centre-Back – 8
You have to love the way Stephens gives no sympathy toward the ref or his opponents. It’s a fire Southampton desperately need in their side. Leaving Bruno on the floor and carrying on was a beautiful example of his grit. Intercepted a few key United moves, but gave away a pass 20 yards out which set Bruno up for a free kick. Still, an all-around tough performance and one that will keep Jan Bednarek out of the side.
Tino Livramento, Right-Back – 9
Showed his defensive awareness knocking the ball off the goal line just 6 minutes in. Excellent recovery run to thwart a counter 10 minutes later. Beats the first man with ease nearly every time and is so amazing when he gets up to speed. His 50 yard run with Fred as a backpack was gorgeous and it looks the first of many. We’ll forget his sole strike driven over frame as he fought to the very final minute as an 18 year old and potentially the signing of the season.