Last week, midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg hinted about a possible departure from St Mary’s in the near future.
Because those comments came from the 24-year-old’s mouth himself, this could understandably worry Southampton fans due to the fact he is the club’s skippers and one of our most valuable assets.
Despite this, we potentially have a replacement for the Danish midfielder that is ready to breakthrough.
The 20-year-old William Smallbone gave the Saints’ faithful a fascinating insight into what he is all about and what he could bring to the table for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side.
Following his first outing during a 2-0 win against Huddersfield Town in the FA Cup, the Austrian tactician was glowing in his compliments for the young former Ireland U19 international. He said that he showed “good movement, quality and a fine touch”.
Does William Smallbone deserve a chance at Southampton?
Yes
No
Having graduated through the club’s youth programme, Smallbone will be looking to stamp his authority on the first-team.
From what we have seen of him already, even though his playing time equates to 158 minutes from two games in the Premier League, he could be in Hasenhuttl’s plans which could save us millions in the transfer market.
Smallbone looks reassured in possession, even when playing against senior professionals and acquitted himself like a Premier League veteran would.
The more chances he gets in the side, the better he will become. We have seen very little of him so far and we are sure that there is more in his locker. Could he fit in Hojbjerg’s shoes? Not just yet, but time will tell.
