£12m Southampton man will be in trouble if Nathan Jones replaces Ralph Hasenhuttl – Our View

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Southampton have been given permission to speak to Luton Town boss Nathan Jones as the Saints look to swiftly replace Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Luton Town released a statement claiming that Southampton have approached the manner correctly – which the Championship side state they are grateful for – and talks are ongoing between all parties.

If Jones does end up at St Mary’s, we believe one Southampton player could be in trouble.

Nathan Jones could drop Gavin Bazunu at Southampton

Well, Gavin Bazunu has played every minute in the Premier League this season since joining in a £12m move from Manchester City back in June.

The Republic of Ireland international was heavily trusted by Hasenhuttl despite being just 20 years of age, while also having no prior Premier League experience before joining Southampton.

However, that could all be about to change for Bazunu.

Interestingly, Jones spent time working with the Irishman’s rival for the No.1 shirt – Alex McCarthy – during their stint together at Yeovil, with the glovesman eventually becoming an England international.

The pair struck up a good relationship, and the shot-stopper clearly developed a lot under Jones while the 49-year-old worked as player-coach.

McCarthy went back to Reading and grabbed the No.1 shirt, before joining the likes of Steven Caulker, Andros Townsend and Ryan Mason among those who have gone on to play for England after developing at Yeovil.

Of course, we are not suggesting that Jones will let favouritism creep in if he is chosen to replace Hasenhuttl.

We believe Bazunu may also be at risk of losing his place in the starting XI due to his performance in Sunday’s nightmarish 4-1 defeat to Newcastle.

Nathan Jones may ring the changes at Southampton

He surely won’t be the only one after that embarrassing defeat to the Magpies, but Bazunu could be replaced by McCarthy if Jones arrives.

The Southampton No.31 was left exposed by his backline on Sunday, although he arguably could have done better when Joe Willock and Bruno Guimaraes netted.

Bazunu has now conceded 24 goals in just 14 Premier League appearances this season, keeping one clean sheet, and Jones may feel inclined to trust a familiar face and give McCarthy a go in between the sticks if he is appointed.