Southampton's decision to sign 31-year-old Cyle Larin on loan in the January transfer window while simultaneously selling their top scorer to Wolverhampton Wanderers did not go down well with everybody in the fanbase.
The play-offs demand composure and experience, and players who can deliver in big moments. That is why Cyle Larin must be trusted to lead the line in the playoff semi-finals and at Wembley.
He arrived in January and took time to settle and find his rhythm. But he has now found it and he is producing when it matters. Eight goals and an assist in 19 appearances tells its own story.
This is not a player feeling his way into a new team anymore. This is a striker who understands his role and who looks confident in front of goal.
His strike against Ipswich was another reminder of his quality and his calmness under pressure. Saints needed a moment and he provided it. That is what promotion battles are built on.
Experience and presence count
Larin brings more than just goals.
He brings presence and strength and intelligence. He can hold the ball up and bring others into play and create space for those around him.
That is vital in tight games because chances can be limited and opportunities must be taken.
Former EFL winger Adrian Clarke has praised his qualities and that reflects what many are seeing. Larin can finish with both feet and he has the physicality to trouble defenders and the awareness to find space.
Those are traits that could be the difference at this stage of the season.
Southampton have options in attack, but not all offer the same balance. The Lochness Drogba (Ross Stewart) is less physical and a bit static. Cameron Archer can run in behind a high line, but struggles to hold the ball up. Larin gives the team a focal point and a sense of control in forward areas.
That is important because play-off football can become stretched and unpredictable.
The time to deliver
There is no room for hesitation now.
Southampton must pick the players who can handle the pressure and deliver in decisive moments. Larin has shown he can do that and he looks like a player who thrives on responsibility.
If Saints are to go up, they will need goals and they will need composure and they will need players who can step forward when it matters most.
Larin fits that profile.
He may not have started the season at Southampton but he could finish it as one of their most important players.
The decision is clear.
Trust the striker who is in form and who is delivering and who looks ready for the challenge ahead.
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