3 Standout Southampton players from a resilient performance in the 1-0 defeat
- Southampton faced a 1-0 defeat against Manchester City despite an encouraging defensive display.
- The three standout Southampton players from a resilient performance in the eighth league defeat.
By Aakash Desai
Jack Stephens
Despite being available to play against Manchester City, 30-year-old centre-back Stephens wasn't highly likely to return to the starting lineup as he hasn't played any competitive match for the Saints since last month. Still, manager Russell Martin opted to bring more experience to the Southampton defence and played Stephens in a three centre-back formation alongside regular starters Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jan Bednarek.
Stephens highlighted his quality and composure while defending and didn't allow Savinho and Matheus Nunes to create a lot of huge chances from inside the box. Moreover, Stephens made a world-class quick pass to Archer in the first half and the 22-year-old continued his brilliant run towards the Manchester City box, but his attempt was deflected by the goal-post.
Next. Saints give their best defensive performance but Haaland guides City to 1-0 home win. Saints give their best defensive performance but Haaland guides City to 1-0 home win. dark
The three central defenders gave a resilient defensive display against Premier League title favourites Manchester City, and would want to replicate their rock-solid defending in the must-win games against Wolves and Everton as well.
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