Sofiane Boufal will fight for a place in the starting lineup with Nathan Redmond but should the Moroccan start over his fellow winger on Saturday?
Southampton’s Sofiane Boufal was almost a forgotten name in the Premier League after being sent out on loan by Mark Hughes to Celta Vigo last season.
The Moroccan scored just three goals and provided four assists in a fairly underwhelming campaign for Celta and himself last season but he could be an integral part of Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side this term.
Boufal has started both of the Saints’ last two games in all competitions and he has shown glimpses of what he is capable of. However, the 25-year-old’s biggest problem over the years has been the lack of consistency but regular game time could help him correct that this season.
Nathan Redmond’s injury paved way for Boufal to start against Manchester United before the international break and the Moroccan had a decent game. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side dominated the possession but Boufal and co did well to cause problems to United on the attack.
Redmond could be in contention to return to the side after recovering from an ankle problem but Boufal should keep his place anyway. The former Norwich man, like Boufal, is a dangerous attacker to come up against but his numbers from last season don’t quite do justice to his quality.
The Englishman played every game for the Saints in the Premier League last season but scored just six goals. Lack of goals from their attackers was Southampton’s biggest problem last season and that is something Hasenhuttl has to rectify quickly this term.
Boufal’s performances in his last two outings certainly warrant another start and Hasenhuttl’s attacking system could well help him fulfil his potential this term. His service will be just as important as his goals for the Saints to help someone like Che Adams open his account and help the club with goals this season.
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