Saints New System Will Suit European Competition
Saints are gradually coming to terms with the new style of playing under Claude Puel and now they get the chance to test it in the Europa League.
Continental football has a different style of play than the more direct game we play in the Premier League, under Claude Puel Saints are playing a more possession style of play as favoured by the continental teams and although that has not quite had the results in the Premier League so far, the fact is with every game Saints are being more accustomed the system and when they get it right the wins will start to come.
Now with the arrival of Sparta Prague to St Mary's we have the chance to prove that it is not the system that is at fault, bt the fact that we have not yet quite mastered it, against Sparta it will be about playing in a more controlled and possession based style that that favoured by the majority of Premier League teams and Puel's system is just that.
Last season we went out against Midjytlland because of the system we played then was about plenty of rush and push, but not about keeping the ball and working up opportunities, that meant the Danish side played to their strengths and caught us on the break and took their chances.
On Thursday night we need to show that we can pass the ball, indeed as we have done in most of our Premier league games, but we need to add some clinical finishing and if we do so then the system will be a resounding success.
So I expect to see a good display from Saints, I expect them to build on the good display at Arsenal and I think that our new style will suit the Europa League.
What to read next:
Swansea City : On the cusp in a very good way ! Two players who have come to Swansea City in the last two seasons from London clubs have earned a position on the clubs retained list this weekend. Both are considered exceptional talents by the Swans academy, and their dream remains alive to become full professional players in the first team squad.
Swans confirm who is staying and congratulations Abdulai ! As we stated this morning Swansea City have released their retained list and also confirmed the signing of Joe Allen for another year. The midfielder has been sitting on an offer for some weeks but indicated via a third party to us he would sign.
Swans retained list and Owain Tudur Jones on Paul Watson We understand that the Swans retained list will be announced today or at the latest on Saturday. And of course that includes players that will be released by the club from the academy and first team squad. So, the Swans plans and immediate future regards players coming in will become much clearer. Or at least the areas they need to target.
Swansea City : Where are the Swans today on all their player business ? Bar the Macaulay Langstaff news there has been little of any concrete info in the offing this week. Mind you that alone caused a stir. Between now and the transfer window opening on June 14th, which is the date for the European Championships to start there will be little to speculate on.
Swansea City : The confusing decision making for a whole season It was a pretty poor end to what can only be described as a disappointing football season for Swansea City. The defeat to Millwall yesterday was a display that has frustrated Swansea City supporters all season. A lack of effort, intensity and desire rewarding the home support with yet another home loss.