Southampton’s 25-game unbeaten run came to an end earlier this month against Bristol City and since then, the South Coast club have struggled to recover.
Russell Martin‘s side suffered a 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened Millwall on the weekend, leaving them five points adrift of the final automatic promotion spot.
Speaking after the game, the former Swansea boss said: “I am furious at the manner of the goals we’ve conceded. Some of the stuff was good but we have given a team something to hang on to again. It’s ridiculous.
We have to stop conceding first. We had a mountain to climb to get into the game. Second half, we have a few big chances but we don’t score – if we get the goal I think we go on to win it.”
Though, despite the disappointing afternoon, one Southampton player stood out more than any other, as Samuel Edozie’s encouraging stats emerge.
Samuel Edozie becoming talismanic for Southampton
Since arriving from Manchester City in 2022, Edozie has largely struggled to find a consistent run of form but now, the 2003-born wide player is thriving for the promotion hopefuls.
Against Millwall, the England under-20 international had 75 touches, made six successful dribbles and had an astonishing 95% pass completion rate, as per Sofascore, evincing his growing maturity and development in his game.
Add that to the fact he’s beginning to produce goals and assists, Edozie’s potential is frightening and he’s starting to become talismanic for the South Coasters.
The 21-year-old has registered nine-goal contributions this term and will be hopeful of adding to that tally in midweek when his side travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in the FA Cup.
Chance to showcase his talents against the elite
Whilst many fear the proposition of playing Premier League table-toppers Liverpool, Southampton should see it as an opportunity to test themselves heading into the business end of the Championship campaign.
If they are to gain promotion to the top-flight, this should give them a decent marker as to where they are and where they need to reach.
Players like the aforementioned Edozie have the chance to showcase their talents against the country’s very best and Wednesday’s match could serve as a confidence booster.
Although The Saints aren’t expected to win, a positive showing against Jurgen Klopp’s side will be invaluable for their development and you never know, they could cause an unlikely upset.
The last time these two sides met, it produced an eight-goal thriller, with the final score ending 4-4.