The Atheltic’s Dan Sheldon has stated that he feels Ibrahima Diallo should get a chance for Southampton with James Ward-Prowse now suspended.
With the scores at Stamford Bridge level last weekend, the Saints captain crashed into Jorginho and consequently got himself sent off. Not only did this result in his side losing the match to Chelsea 3-1, it also means Ward-Prowse will miss his club’s next three domestic matches (unless Southampton successfully appeal the ban).
Do you think Ibrahima Diallo should start Southampton's next game?
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Having played in the club’s last 117 games in a row, it’s fair to say manager Ralph Hasenhuttl hasn’t had to spend much time pondering his captain’s place in the team over recent seasons.
However, in light of the suspension, a new man will have to step into the middle of the park for Southampton, and Sheldon has claimed that Diallo ‘deserves the chance’.
When discussing the matter on the Total Saints podcast, the journalist was asked who should play in place of Ward-Prowse. He replied: “For me, Diallo [should step in]. I think if you’re going to put Stuart Armstrong in, you probably take out [Nathan] Redmond or someone else and put him further up the pitch.
“I think Diallo deserves the chance. He was good against Sheffield [United], he was good against Chelsea.
“I don’t think it’s too much of a debate.”
TIF Thoughts on Ibrahima Diallo and Southampton…
Diallo signed for the Saints in 2020 and has played 33 games for them since, scoring just once.
He has yet to start a league game so far this season, but did get 45 minutes off the bench against Chelsea. He has also started both of the club’s EFL Cup games (via Transfermarkt).
As Ward-Prowse is the club captain, he will likely leave some big boots to fill during his suspension. Leeds United, Burnley and Chelsea all rest on the horizon for the south coast club – perhaps one of those games will afford Diallo the chance to impress.
In other news: “They need to be looking” – Exclusive: Palmer tips Saints to launch transfer raid on PL rivals