Will Still Clarifies Mateus Fernandes' Absence in 3-0 Win
Will Still Addresses Mateus Fernandes' Absence in Southampton's 3-0 Victory Over Norwich
Southampton manager Will Still reassured fans after midfield talent Mateus Fernandes was noticeably absent from the squad that secured a convincing 3-0 victory against Norwich City in the Carabao Cup clash. Club captain Jack Stephens was also missing, prompting speculation about potential concerns for the duo.
Fitness Concerns Behind Fernandes and Stephens Absences
Speaking after the match at Carrow Road, Will Still quelled any rumors surrounding Fernandes' exclusion from the lineup. Despite both Fernandes and Stephens traveling with the squad during the first-round match earlier this month, Still confirmed the decision to leave them out was fitness-related.
"We left Stevo and Matty at home just for recovery, for loads and all that, but that's it," Still explained. "It’s nothing to do with transfers or anything like that."
Mateus Fernandes has been linked to high-profile clubs, including West Ham and Atletico Madrid, during the summer transfer window. However, Still dismissed these speculations as the reason for his absence, focusing instead on maintaining player fitness ahead of critical fixtures like Saturday's Championship meeting with Watford.
Southampton’s Dominant Performance Sparks Confidence
Southampton showed a commanding performance on the pitch, with Cameron Archer, Ryan Fraser, and Kuryu Matsuki contributing the decisive goals that led the Saints to the third round. Despite a slow and nervy start, the team gradually found their rhythm under Still’s tactical direction.
Reflecting on the match, Still acknowledged the initial struggles: “We were getting into old habits of playing sideways and backwards and attracting pressure, but we started playing forward and getting in behind. Once that clicked, we really grew into the game.”
Key Moments in the Win
- Archer’s Opening Goal: The breakthrough came as Cameron Archer accurately finished off a well-executed offensive play, calming the team and boosting morale.
- Second Goal Brilliance: Ryan Fraser capitalized on pressure, skillfully finding the back of the net to extend Southampton’s lead.
- Matsuki’s "Worldie": Kuryu Matsuki’s spectacular strike sealed the victory, drawing appreciation from the manager for its individual quality and style.
"I think Matsuki's worldie was just a nice way to finish things off," Still said. "It’s a question of building confidence in the areas we actually want to play in."
Playing Style Adjustments Prove Crucial
The Saints manager emphasized the importance of avoiding outdated habits like playing short and inviting unnecessary pressure. "We don’t want to play short and attract pressure and play it back into pressure. That’s everything we want to avoid," he noted.
Instead, Still encouraged using longer passes and stretching the opposition’s defensive block to create space and opportunities. "Once we started stretching it, our passing became bigger, and we started switching and stretching their block. Then you just make it easier for yourself," he explained.
Looking Ahead
Despite the promising result, Still understands the task at hand is far from over. "It’s still early days, so I’m sure we can build on that," he said. As Southampton continues to find their footing this season, performances like the one against Norwich provide glimpses of their potential under Still’s management. With an important Championship game against Watford looming, fan expectations remain high for the Saints’ continued progress.
AI contributed to the creation of this article.