Southampton decided to let Will Smallbone go on loan to Stoke back in July as Ralph Hasenhuttl decided he had no need for the 22-year-old.
As the Saints struggle in the Premier League – despite today’s boost against Chelsea – Smallbone has enjoyed himself under Alex Neil as he finds himself one of the more important players at the Bet365 Stadium.
Now, the 41-year-old has showered the Southampton academy graduate in praise.
What’s the story?
Well, Neil claimed that Smallbone tends to cover more distance than any other Stoke player – while also describing him as “underrated” in general.
As quoted by the Stoke Sentinel, the Scot said: “I think Will Smallbone, in my opinion, is a completely underrated player. If you look what Will brings to the team, his legs are to die for, he’s unbelievable in terms of the amount of ground he covers in a game. When he’s not there is when you recognise it the most.
“Will, generally, in any training session or any game churns out the most distance compared to anyone on a regular basis. Also technically, I think his understanding of pressing and jumping and locking things on is excellent.”
As Southampton find themselves bottom of the Premier League and with little depth in their central midfield department, some supporters may question why Smallbone was allowed to leave.
Will Smallbone showing Southampton he can help them
If the Saints do end up dropping into the Championship, then Smallbone’s excellent performances in England’s second tier are proving to Southampton that he can help them go back up.
The Irishman has started 25 of Stoke’s 32 games in the Championship this season.
While things could certainly be going better for the Potters as they sit 19th in the table, Smallbone has played a key role in ensuring that the situation is not worse for Neil.
Hopefully – whether Southampton avoid relegation or not – Smallbone is given another chance at St Mary’s.
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