These 3 Southampton stars are fighting for their futures at St Mary’s

Shane Long

Another one that’s debatable, but there were rumours surrounding Shane Long’s future during the January transfer window, and the arrival of Manolo Gabbiadini is unlikely to quash that speculation come the summer.

The Italian international has already netted five goals in just three games for the Saints, the same as Irishman Long this term, and he looks set to lead the line for the rest of the campaign in Charlie Austin’s absence.

With Nathan Redmond a regular starter in a more advanced role, that leaves Jay Rodriguez and Long as the other forwards at the club and, although both have started seven Premier League games this season, most of Rodriguez’s have come recently, suggesting that he is ahead in the pecking order.

That means that 30-year-old Long has some work to do to prove to Puel of his capabilities, so when he does indeed get on the pitch between now and May, he has to perform, otherwise he may see his Saints career come to an end this summer.