Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone has been recommended to improve his physicality to become a regular starter ahead.
Heading into matchday 29, what is the biggest positive Southampton carry forward? You might reply the Saints' defense that inspired hopes against Liverpool, at least in the 1st half.
Now, that ain't wrong, yet a bigger story was of midfielder Will Smallbone. Scoring before the interval, he initiated those hopes for an Anfield result.
Overall, he was one of the best Saints players, writing a perfect redemption story weeks after a disrespectful sub-off. In fact, Smallbone's Anfield show made the fans realize what they have been missing this while.
Naturally, post-game, you might have thought it too why not start him every game? But, hey, that's the only issue with the 25-year-old.
Though harsh, despite being one of the best in his role, Smallbone is among the worst when it comes to Premier League consistency. And why so? His limited physicality.
Surprising it seems, this only weakness has seen Smallbone struggling in the Top Flight despite impressive Championship spells. Having rarely missed a game in the last two seasons in the second division, the midfielder has been unavailable for most of this season.
Juric firm to improve Smallbone's physical levels going ahead
And lo, if you haven't heard it, the previous matchday hero is set to miss the Wolves clash today.
But hey, don't you worry, Smallbone's physical inconsistencies are to get improved ahead. This is per boss Ivan Juric, who plans to bring out the midfielder's best version soon.
As quoted by the Daily Echo, Juric analyzed Smallbone's situation, saying: "I think technically he's really good, understanding the game really good. I think his weakness is physicality, and we start to work about his physicality in the gym."
Just imagine, Southampton's overall display if Smallbone returns to appreciable fitness levels. But, guess what, at least of now, this is another big what if in the Saints' ongoing dismal season.