Chelsea 3-1 Southampton: Saints Player Ratings as McCarthy impresses
By Marc Walker
Manager, Goalkeeper and Defenders
Ralph Hasenhuttl, Manager – 7
This loss is certainly not the manager’s fault. In fact, the changes he made at half-time turned the game in Saints’ favour.
He will have to get some points on the board in the next five games but it is important to realise that he is managing during a transitional period for the club after previous mismanagement – less than ideal for anyone, including any potential replacement.
Alex McCarthy, Goalkeeper – 8
When McCarthy has a good day, invariably Saints have a good day too. They looked on track to pick up something before the red card and the keeper had played his part in making six saves in all.
One in particular against Tino Werner saw an instinctive hand thrown up to block a close-range shot that seemed destined for the net.
Tino Livramento, Right-Back – 7
One of the biggest tests of his career to date but he stood up and took the challenge head on. Won the Saints penalty after a determined run into the box.
Also described his “pleasure” at playing back at his old club after his transfer from Chelsea back in the summer.
Jan Bednarek, Centre-Back – 6
Will be determined to prove that he can be the player to play alongside Salisu for the rest of this season but has not totally grabbed his chance yet. Mistake against Wolves last weekend will be remembered as a costly one.
Mohammed Salisu, Centre-Back – 7
Always a classy presence and looks really settled as a Southampton and Premier League player. A leader already despite his tender age.
Just needs a settled and in-form team around him now.
Kyle Walker-Peters, Left-Back – 5
Continues to look uncomfortable on the left and there was really no reason to play him there against the right flank of Chelsea yesterday.
Although it would be criminal to have Walker-Peters sitting on the bench, Romain Perraud must be wondering what he has done wrong.