Southampton must take note of legend Gareth Bale's Kieffer Moore verdict by handing in Joshua Quarshie his debut, tasked to contain the new Wrexham signing.
Just like that, we have entered the matchday week of Southampton's Championship opener against Wrexham. And it's a shame on Saints part that instead of picking things right from that 2023/24 Wembley playoff win, they are bound to start from scratch, especially in defence.
With Harwood-Bellis unavailable and Jan Bednarek's exit, the Saints are forced to kick off the new season without a reliable defensive duo.
And don't be overjoyed with Wrexham forward Jay Rodriguez's absence, as the club has swiftly brought in another spearhead in Kieffer Moore. Well, that just aggravates the question as to which Saint should be thrown into the heart of the defence, then?
Interestingly, seems like former academy star turned icon Gareth Bale can help Saints with his previous advice.
That's because, having led Wales' front three with Moore previously, Bale once detailed on Moore's biggest strength, which makes it difficult for centre-backs to control him.
Speaking to the Guardian in 2019, Bale mentioned: “Kieffer has come in and done a fantastic job; he’s that out-ball for us now, he’s someone who can hold the ball up and someone we can play off."
Reading between the lines, it isn't hard to realise that Bale points out Moore's heading abilities and aerial superiority as his primary standouts. Add them with a prolific goal instinct, and that's what is enough for Moore to pull on a show in the Championship.
Joshua Quarshie should be Saints' go-to choice tasked to halt Moore
So, who's going to stop him on the opening matchday? Well, the answer lies in Saints' inaugural investment this summer, Joshua Quarshie's abilities.
Having been brought to spark young raw energy into the defence, Quarshie's profile feels tailor-made to shut down Moore. Being blessed with explosive pace and brilliant heading in a physically imposing physique, the 21-year-old feels the go-to option for boss Still to turn to in Harwood-Bellis' absence.
Just imagine the scenes if Quarshie stands up to the challenge on what will be his official club debut. We witnessed Damion Downs score on his friendly debut the other day, how about a Quarshie show now?
Overall, this could be a decisive opener if Southampton earns a dependable defender in Joshua Quarshie for the future. Hopefully, the speculation will be fulfilled in a comfortable Saints win.