Southampton fans could have been forgiven for thinking about the worst outcome at the end of the season, but thanks to Ralph Hasenhuttl their 9-0 defeat and terrible form is now a thing of the past.
The Austrian still has to fix the home form but there are a number of signs which suggest he will be able to do so, and such an achievement will continue to lift the Saints away from the relegation zone.
Part of the reason behind an improvement in results has been the performances of Danny Ings and Nathan Redmond, who are enjoying themselves playing in a 4-4-2 style that Hasenhuttl introduced a few weeks ago.
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They now have 13 and three goals respectively and Southampton have balance in the team as well as a front two who work hard. Michael Obafemi and Che Adams showed an industriousness nature, adding to the willing work usually put in by Ings.
Jack Stephens in defence is another who has improved while Stuart Armstrong’s recall to the starting line-up has coincided with two wins in two games, and it is Hasenhuttl who is responsible for each of them getting better.
That bold decision to start Adams and Obafemi many have filled many with dread and doubt as neither had scored a league goal this season, yet the south coast outfit showed brilliant spirit and managed to defeat Chelsea.
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Hasenhuttl has demonstrated great temperament to pull through a difficult stage in his career, suffering a heavy defeat and a winless run of eight league games at one point.
He has got the team back playing with confidence and they now have the ability to score against most teams in the division.
As a result, he is deserving of greater backing in the transfer market. Of his two big summer signings, Adams so far hasn’t lived up to expectations with no goals scored while Moussa Djenepo has proved an inspired purchase for just £15m. Since arriving, he’s been a discussion point among supporters while also scoring two goals and claiming an assist from a variety of roles.
In other areas the former RB Leipzig has been unable to make new additions, most notably in central defence and midfield, and that hindered him at the beginning of the campaign.
However, now he has proven himself he must be supported by owner Gao Jisheng who must give him money to spend in January and beyond. It’s something that could allow him to take the club to the next level and put relegation fears firmly behind them.
Mario Lemina will likely come back to the club once his loan spell finishes, and he could be a welcome return as he is playing well in his spell at Galatasaray.
