Southampton’s Flop Worth Less Than Manning.

11/05/2024 Simeon Football 0

Southampton has squandered considerable funds on this failure.

Southampton heads into the playoff lottery with a sense of relief after clinching a vital victory at Elland Road, defeating a nervy Leeds United 2-1 to halt their recent slide. Prior to this triumph in West Yorkshire, Russell Martin’s side had suffered three consecutive defeats in the Championship, including a humbling 5-0 loss to league champions Leicester City.

Kyle Walker-Peters showcased his prowess against Daniel Farke’s side, providing the assist for Will Smallbone’s decisive goal. Walker-Peters has been a linchpin for Martin throughout the season, attracting attention from Premier League clubs.

However, Southampton’s left-back position presents a contrasting picture. Juan Larios, signed for a hefty £6 million two years ago, has failed to justify his price tag. Plagued by injuries, Larios has made minimal impact, with only five appearances across two seasons. Despite his potential, his value has plummeted to a mere £1.1 million, while Ryan Manning, despite his own struggles, commands a valuation of £4.2 million.

Despite Manning’s comparatively higher value, Martin may seek an upgrade, especially if Southampton secures promotion. Manning’s shaky performances, notably in the heavy defeat to Leicester City, underscore the need for reinforcement. With Larios unable to provide reliable cover due to persistent injuries, Martin faces a crucial decision regarding the left-back position if Southampton ascends to the Premier League through the playoffs.