Ugky Inside co Founder Clive Foley brings us details of the friendly against KVV Quick in Holland.

"We broke your scoreboard" sung the small band of travelling Saints fans as the announcer apologised that it only went up to nine.

This was purely a fitness exercise as Oldenzaal were completely blown away in the first half hour. The speed of Saints players was just too much for them. Saints did look sharp and hungry but you can't judge a lot by this game.

I would put their standard somewhere between Sholing and Gosport. They tried their best,used 3 goalkeepers but just weren't at the races.

For me Harry Reed was outstanding, tenacious tackling and moving the ball quickly forward. People talk about him looking like Scholes but I can pay him no higher compliment than saying last night he played like Alan Ball.

Sam McQueen really shone in the second half. Oldenzaal just couldn't contain him so I'd imagine that puts him higher up the pecking order. Great attitude and a real hand full.

Summing up its really a question of let's wait and see. Feyenoord with a packed stadium will be a real test.

What did strike me last night was the euphoria surrounding Saints these days. Many years ago I went to watch a similar friendly in Holland which Saints also won about 10-0. Then the players came in the club house for a drink and nobody bothered them. Last night it was like a circus as hundreds of Dutch fans tried to get their autographs. They were then whisked away in their luxury coach which I guess is a sign of the times.

Photo: Action Images

Zambucco added 13:28 - Jul 23 My tip for a regular place this season Sam McQueen. To be fair he stood out in all the friendlies last summer, but wasn't given the nod. Stephens and Turnbull looking good too, could be the answer to our CB dilemma
0

SaintBrock added 13:47 - Jul 23 Interesting take Zambucco, old Dave Merrington is always banging on about pairings rather than individual players being the key to success. Stephens and Turnbull played the whole of the last campaign at Swindon together so they must have a really good understanding of each other's play, strengths and weaknesses and by now must be a very effective central pairing. Koeman won't risk them both that's the problem and neither may be as effective alongside Jose. You never know 'though he may start them an leave Jose on the bench.

0

SaintBrock added 13:49 - Jul 23 I like the look of Sam McQueen too he is a thrilling player to watch and whenever he gets the ball there is always an air of expectancy around the ground. Maybe we have our next Paine, Walcott or Chamberlin?
0

Blogs 32 bloggers

Southampton Polls