Alan Shearer was full of praise for Southampton interim manager Ruben Selles and trio Romain Perraud, Romeo Lavia and James Ward-Prowse after naming them in his Premier League Team of the Weak.
It is safe to say that the Saints faithful is still buzzing about the team’s 1-0 win against Chelsea at the weekend. Caretaker manager Selles led the team to a brilliant victory, with Ward-Prowse grabbing the winner in trademark JWP fashion.
Southampton had the most representation on Shearer’s Premier League Team of the Week after their impressive display at Stamford Bridge. Players Perraud, Lavia and Ward-Prowse all earned a place in the legendary striker’s best XI.
Meanwhile, Selles was named as Shearer’s best manager of the week. On the Spaniard, he said:
"“What an audition! His tactics worked perfectly as he masterminded a vital victory. The players seemed to enjoy playing under him.”"
Shearer hailed Perraud’s performance against Graham Potter’s side as ‘outstanding’. He lauded:
"“Outstanding from start to finish and capped off his performance with a vital goal-line clearance.”"
The former Saints frontman also pointed out how Lavia came out on top against Chelsea’s midfield. He stated:
"“Dominated the midfield against Chelsea’s big-money signings.”"
Shearer pointed out that Ward-Prowse is edging closer to breaking David Beckham’s free-kick record in the Premier League as well. He said:
"“Yet another stunning free-kick and now he needs just one more to equal David Beckham’s record.”"
Ward-Prowse also earned praise from former Southampton captain Dean Hammond for his match-winning performance against the Blues at the weekend.
Southampton loanee Jack Stephens also makes Shearer’s Team of the Week
Apart from the quartet, Southampton loan star Jack Stephens also earned a place in Shearer’s Premier League Team of the Week. The defender helped AFC Bournemouth claim a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The 29-year-old is on loan with the Cherries until the end of the season. The Saints loanee is proving to be important in their relegation battle this season.