Troy Deeney acknowledges Jan Bednarek's flawless performance against Manchester City despite labelling him a slow defender months ago.
Just yesterday, Pundit Chris Sutton criticised Southampton at length by calling them a 'Bunch of Losers'. Now, on a collective level, this is the biggest jibe someone has taken at the Saints this season, yet it isn't the most humiliating one.
That's because nothing beats that Troy Deeney incident, where he dropped the biggest slam ever on a Saints Captain. Back when, 3 months ago, the ex-forward mocked Jan Bednarek for his extremely slow pace.
Well, even now, these comments would have hardly slipped from any Saints fan's memory, who have waited long for a bold reply through their veteran star, Bednarek.
But no more, as though Deeney started the banter, Jan Bednarek has now returned the favour by making the pundit eat his words.
In Southampton's recent draw against the Cityzens, Bednarek stood at his best level in the Saints' defence. Against a world-class attack force, the 29-year-old helped retaliate almost every goal attempt that came against their way.
Despite 26 shots taken by the visitors, Bednarek and the Saints' backline restricted conceding a goal in the fixture. That's why Deeney couldn't help but appreciate the defender, who led the sensational backline effort.
Troy Deeney credits Bednarek for crucial Southampton draw
As quoted by the Daily Echo, Deeney admitted: "I'm going to give Bednarek credit not just for dealing with Erling Haaland defensively, but he also wound Haaland up - and a few other City players."
Honestly, despite this admission, Bednarek's recent contributions still feel far less appreciated.
That's because, ever since his injury return, the 29-year-old Saints veteran has been the pillar of boss Rusk's defence system that is garnering applause from all fans, now. And that's even when Bednarek has led the side, with his actions on and off the field.
Some may call it exaggeration, but despite giving his all, Bednarek's contributions have gone unnoticed most of the time. Hopefully, the St. Mary's faithful celebrate the defender more, who feels on route to retire as one of the club's greats.