In the wake of Tuesday night’s 3-1 defeat at the Etihad, a selection of Saints players went over to the away section to thank the travelling fans for their support. Amongst them was Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who singled out a young fan, and gave the boy his shirt.
The clubs official Twitter account posted a clip of the interaction, which received widespread praise from a lot of fans. Indeed, the response to his shirt donation appeared to go down far better with the fanbase.
The 24-year-old’s gesture reduced the young fan to tears, and the act of kindness has clearly been appreciated by many long-suffering Saints fans:
To each and every one of our fans who were with us tonight: Thank you! ?? pic.twitter.com/V0FVKEXlTL
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) October 29, 2019
It got quite emotional at the end. I feel like we all had ‘a moment’.
— Jim Larkin (@LarkinJim) October 29, 2019
Absolutely brilliant x
— marylyn bull (@BullMarylyn) October 30, 2019
Others were keen to pay tribute to the supporters who attended the game in trying circumstances:
Fair play on fans who turn up. Respect
— Ashley (@ashccfc10) October 30, 2019
?? Keep your heads up guys! We have to step forward. This was the first step, a positive step. And need to make big steps ahead. I ? you! #SaintsFC ??? pic.twitter.com/B17ELUWLuo
— Wiesel (@Wiesel_11) October 29, 2019
Met some great Saints fans on way to match. Good banter which is how it should be.
— Gra Warner (@GraWarner7) October 30, 2019
What we think?
A small gesture it may be, but it’s the kind of act that shows a weary fanbase that the players do indeed care a great deal for the club. Hojbjerg has been vocal in taking responsibly for the Leicester City defeat, but actions speak louder than words, and on this occasion, that has proven to be true once again.
For now, all players can do is give their all, and attempt to show the fans that they are committed to the cause.
Hojbjerg’s shirt donation will certainly help in that effort.