Puel sees similarities between Redmond and an Arsenal legend.
Southampton’s Nathan Redmond in action
Southampton manager Claude Puel has boldly compared Nathan Redmond to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry – who Puel also worked with at Monaco prior to the Frenchman’s move to the Premier League.
Redmong signed for the Saints from relegated Norwich City this summer and will be used in a more central striker role having started his career as a wide man.
Puel is quoted in the Daily Echo saying: “It’s two different players of course, but yes I see similarities between the two with this ability to shoot with the right foot and to curl the ball.
Southampton manager Claude Puel
“He has this particularity, and he feels too the play and he can make a combination with his partner and can dribble also and make the difference for me.
“It’s a very good player and a very good surprise to find this player at this level.”
Whenever someone reads such a comparison, they will think that Puel feels Redmond could be this all conquering player who will win multiple player of the year award, golden boots and plenty of honours with his club.
Arsenal’s Thierry Henry celebrates victory
He may well do that but Puel’s comparison seems mostly focussed on the type of player they are. Henry was a player who was accustomed to playing in wider roles before operating more centrally as his career went on. He had a terrific turn of pace while his finishing ability was second to none.
Puel thinks a similar conversion of Redmond could yield better results for both the player and for the club. Only time will tell if it’s the right decision – but a good, solid goal return from Redmond in the season ahead would vindicate his manager.
Southampton’s Nathan Redmond and FC Twente’s Jeroen Van Der Lely in action
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