Southampton had five players named in the Championship team of the week after beating QPR. Kuryu Matsuki earned a place on the right side of midfield, courtesy of his brace against the R's. Léo Scienza, despite a quiet first half, also made the Sky Bet Championship team after scoring a goal in the second period.
Finn Azaz made sure that all three of the Saints' attacking midfielders got on the team sheet with a cracking finish of his own and an assist.
Both of the Southampton full-backs made the team. James Bree was solid in the first half and then scored with a controlled shot from outside the area.
The stats from whoscored.com are heavily weighted towards goals and assists, so Ryan Manning's assist may be the only explanation for why he has been included.
But the one Southampton player who was missing that really should have been there was Flynn Downes. The Saints' defensive midfielder had a colossal impact on the outcome. He broke up attacks before they became dangerous and put his body on the line time after time.
Downes was central to the QPR win
Downes played with tenacity and intelligence against Rangers. He covered the ground he needed to and broke up play time and again. His presence in midfield gave the Saints balance because he read the game so well, stopping attacks before they could get started.
His tackles and interceptions kept Southampton in control, even when QPR had their 20 minutes of pressure in the first half. He kept the tempo, and he made simple passes that helped transition from defence to attack. His 93.8% passing accuracy ensured that Saints kept the ball instead of giving it straight away. Without that foundation, the likes of Scienza, Azaz, and Matsuki may not have had the platform to shine.
The club’s five players in the team of the week (perhaps with the exception of Manning) were justly recognised. They created chances, scored goals, and contributed to the clean sheet. But football is not just about goals. It is about control, structure, and composure.
Downes was all of that against QPR.
Although Downes may not feature in the match highlights with a stunning strike or a brilliant assist, he gave the team the engine it needed to come out on top.
Recognition matters and fans know it
Supporters watch every game, and they see who makes a difference. They know what Downes' role is in this team. His passing accuracy and defensive work rate were key to the victory and were just as decisive as any forward contribution.
Team of the week selections are nice, and they reward great overall stats. They don't reward substance and influence. Downes brings both because he acts as a pivot and a shield. That double role is invaluable.
If five Saints can be recognised, then Downes should be there beside them. Fans know it, and analysts know it. His work was essential to the result, and that deserves proper acknowledgement.
Flynn Downes should have been named in the Championship team of the week alongside his teammates because he was just as vital to Saints’ success. And, if Flynn Downes makes the team, Caspar Jander is a strong case for 'team of the week' switching to a 4-5-1!