These 2 Southampton players must improve if they are to challenge for the top six

Shane Long

Austin’s absence is likely to mean that Shane Long will lead the line for the Saints over the coming weeks.

The Republic of Ireland international started the season ahead of the former Burnley and QPR forward in the pecking order, but didn’t do enough to justify staying ahead of Austin, who then went on to nail down the starting role.

However, Puel will now be looking towards Long to lead from the front, although he hasn’t netted in the Premier League this season in 10 appearances for the Saints, three of which have been starts.

Nevertheless, the 29-year-old has had 13 shots on goal this season, so he’s getting himself into the positions, but hasn’t created a chance for his teammates since the end of September.

It’s difficult to judge Long’s season due to the number of substitute appearances, but the Irish striker struggled in the early parts of the season, and will need to improve upon those efforts in the coming weeks.