Southampton are in the midst of a fine run of form, but Sofiane Boufal has struggled to cement his place in the first-team due to a troublesome knee issue.
Southampton manager Claude Puel
The Claude Puel revolution is well and truly under way at Southampton, but one of his expensive summer recruits Sofiane Boufal has failed to assert himself on the first-team as yet, with the Frenchman urging Saints fans to be patient with the 23-year-old, as quoted by the Daily Mail.
The Moroccan international moved to the South Coast from Ligue 1 side Lille in the summer for a fee believed to be in the region of £21 million, but has managed to make only two appearances for Southampton – both as a substitute.
Speaking to reporters at his pre-match press conference, Puel explained how it will be vital to allow Boufal time to settle into the side as he looks to come back from a series of knee issues, as quoted by the Daily Mail:
Boufal during his time with Lille
“It’s important to stay patient with him, to see him come back step by step. He will be an important player for the squad. It’s important to keep him with a good physical level and without injury.”
Much was expected of Boufal after his big money move to the Saints, but a succession of injuries have compounded the already difficult transition from the slower-paced French league to what is considered the most intense league in the world.
Sofiane Boufal
Southampton host Sunderland today in the fourth round the EFL Cup, but Puel will surely prioritise his side’s home game against Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.
Whether Boufal will taste any action against Sunderland remains to be seen.
Southampton’s Sofiane Boufal in action
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