NIGEL Adkins saluted Guly do Prado after his match-winning performance at Coventry.

The Brazilian terrorised the Sky Blues defence at the Ricoh Arena, scoring what proved to be the decisive goal and helping set up the other three for Saints.

It was the latest in a series of influential displays from the 29-year-old, who has struck up an effective strike partnership with Rickie Lambert in the past few weeks.

There is little doubt Guly is in his best run of form since joining Saints, initially on loan, from Italian side AC Cesena in August 2010.

Now a permanent St Mary’s player, he has had more than a year to adapt to the English game.

Adkins confessed it has not been an easy transition for Guly, but he praised his forward for embracing a new way of life while also underlining the importance of the rest of the squad in helping him settle.

“You put yourself in that position, not knowing the language, not knowing the culture, not knowing the environment you’ve got,” said Adkins of the challenge facing Guly when he arrived.

“It takes a bit of time and I think he’s been great."

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