Why Southampton should make a January swoop for Nicolas de Preville
Southampton and Newcastle United played out a goalless draw at St. Mary’s on Saturday. A disappointing affair ended in a stalemate that left Mark Hughes’ men still looking for their first home victory of the season.
Southampton were clearly the better side on Saturday as they created a good number of chances. But after a staggering 22 attempts on goal, the Saints couldn’t find the back of the net even once. That paints the entire picture how frustrating Southampton have been so far this season and with just one league win in nine games, it all looks sour for the Saints.
Hughes replaced Mauricio Pellegrino midway through last season when Southampton found themselves in a rut. The Saints looked destined for the drop but Hughes somehow managed to steady the ship and eventually saved the club’s blushes.
He was rightly given a permanent role but his side have not shown the flair and creativity in the attack, even at home.
Hence, Hughes is clearly on borrowed time and should he keep his job at the St. Mary’s until January, he must convince the club to splash the cash on a new forward.
The Saints desperately need a couple of fresh faces in January to beat the drop. A new attacking player is a must and the Saints should target Bordeaux star Nicolas de Preville.
The Frenchman joined Bordeaux last summer from Lille and managed just four goals in 29 games across all competitions. And the 27-year-old also hasn’t enjoyed the best of starts this campaign as he has managed just a goal in six Ligue 1 outings. Despite struggling to hit the strides at Bordeaux, there is no denying the quality Nicolas de Preville has in his locker.
Standing at 5ft 10in, De Preville is intelligent, skilful, has the pace and can play on either wing and also through the middle. He has the ability to light up the stadium with his creative and quick play and does a lot without the ball as well.
Although the Frenchman may not have a great technique, he certainly would bring a lot of energy to Southampton’s attack. The Saints need more incisiveness and liveliness in the final third and De Preville might be the ideal man for that purpose.
And despite being just less than 6ft, he has the ability to time his jump to perfection, which makes him effective during set-pieces.
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That said, Southampton must go all guns blazing to sign De Preville in January.