University of Gloucestershire sports journalism student and Southampton fan Sam Godber feels change may be needed for struggling Saints if they want to avoid relegation.
When asked about his thoughts on the season so far, he said: “It’s going downhill. We had a loss and a draw in our first two games, but then we got a win and the group started coming together.
“We managed to get a big win against Chelsea, a good win in the cup to keep the cup run going, but there’s been a bit of a slip between the fans, the manager and the board and we’ve lost the last four games, so it’s not looking promising at the moment.”
Manager Ralph Hasenhüttl has been at the club since December 2018 but has recently come under a lot of scrutiny. This isn’t the first time this has happened, as he’s suffered two 9-0 defeats during his time at the club, against Manchester United and Leicester City.
Many fans think it may be time for change, and when discussing the subject Godber said: “It’s a tricky one. The last three years he’s done well because the board have given him no money.
“But this year he’s finally been supported by the board, and it’s been our worst start under him. I think he doesn’t have many games left to turn it around.
“The dream is to bring back Pochettino, but I feel like that’s too big of an ask now.”
Despite the poor start, there have been some bright spots within this young Southampton team. “Armel Bella-Kotchap and Roméo Lavia, two new signings, both have been incredible so far,” said Godber regarding who has stood out so far this season.
Bella-Kotchap is just 20 years of age, and his fantastic form earned him a first call-up to the Germany national team.
Lavia is only 18 years old and has already broken a Premier League record. He became the first player born in 2004 to score in the English top flight when he netted a stunning strike in the 2-1 victory over Chelsea.
Southampton have an in-from West Ham side to look forward to in their next outing. The Hammers have won five of their last six games, so it will certainly be a challenge for The Saints. Godber stated: “It’s a game that we need to get at least a point from because we’re at home, so we’ve got home advantage.
“West Ham are starting to pick up their form again, but I feel like it’s a winnable game for us.”
One player that’s certainly finding his feet in the English game is Italian striker Gianluca Scamacca, and Godber feels he is one they need to be wary of. “He’s scored four in his last five club matches. Also, Jarrod Bowen can damage defences as well.”
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