Despite having a subpar international record, a Southampton player stands out as the “most creative player”
Greece played Republic of Ireland at home on Friday night in a Euro qualifier, which Greece won 2-0.
The Republic of Ireland will now have a difficult time competing in the Euro competition next summer.
With just three points from six games, they are currently sitting fourth out of sixth in their group. They are now nine points behind Greece for the final qualifying slot.
Will Smallbone of Southampton has been a tiny bright spot for the country despite their troubles during this qualifying campaign and on Friday night as well.
Despite his team’s overall lackluster performance on Friday, he started the game and played well.
After the game, the Irish website Balls.ie gave Smallbone a 6/10 for performance, but reporter Gary Connaughton praised Smallbone’s participation in general, writing:
“Came quite close to opening the scoring inside of five minutes. The Greek goalie brilliantly stopped his shot from the edge of the area. Smallbone occasionally displayed good skills, resulting in some eye-catching initial layoffs to teammates.
Even though it had little bearing on the outcome, the Southampton player was undoubtedly the team’s most creative player on the evening. It was surprising to see him leave with only 20 seconds remaining.
Smallbone has made nine appearances for Southampton in the Championship this year, scoring one. Despite their overall struggles, his team is now in 10th place in the standings after their first 11 games.
Southampton’s Smallbone
Smallbone has not yet had a particularly noteworthy season with Southampton. However, neither has his back. Smallbone is still a player with enormous potential, as evidenced by his performance against Greece. Hopefully, he can be one of the players who helps them salvage their season.
Russell Martin has had it rough thus far, but he has a team that can compete at the top of the table, so it only seems a matter of time until things start to turn around.
Smallbone and The Saints are back.
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