Southampton aim subtle dig at Manchester City after goalless draw

Southampton aimed a subtle dig at Manchester City and Pep Guardiola after claiming a well-deserved point at the Etihad on Saturday.

Much of the talk in the lead up to the game had been about Guardiola’s words towards his own fans which encouraged more City supporters to come along and watch their team.

Although the Spaniard’s quotes had been taken out of context, the situation perhaps added something for Saints to take advantage of and they certainly did that. They were delighted with their point but could have easily had all three had the award of a second-half penalty not been controversially overturned.

An impressive following was seen from Saints in the away end on Saturday and the club made their feelings towards their own fans well known with the tweet below.

Southampton can be pleased with points return despite winless start

Saints have four points from their opening five league fixtures in the 2021/22 season and, despite still being without a win, they have shown some good form.

Things started badly with a 3-1 loss at Everton but subsequent draws against Manchester United, Newcastle, West Ham and now City can be considered better than expected.

This is quite a change of fortunes from the previous two seasons under Ralph Hasenhuttl’s management. In 2019/20 and 2020/21 they drew just seven matches, meaning that there is perhaps a bit more added steel about the team this time around.

It proved to be a significant summer of change at St Mary’s as stars Danny Ings, Ryan Bertrand and Jannik Vestergaard left for pastures new but the departures were countered by signings. Youth, potential and depth came through the door and it looks to have created a team willing to put their all in for the red and white striped shirt.

Saints will be targeting a first win of the season against Wolves next weekend but do have something to build on right now.