CLAUDE Puel has been given a boost after defensive midfielder Oriol Romeu revealed that the injury he picked up in the 2-0 defeat at Manchester United is “nothing serious”.
Romeu limped out after just 12 minutes at Old Trafford, with Jordy Clasie, who eventually gave away a penalty, entering the fray.
With the Spaniard absent, the impressive Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was forced to drop deeper to pick up the defensive duties that Romeu had been responsible for, with Puel forced to swap things around in his midfield diamond.
The 24-year-old, who is now Saints’ first choice shielding midfielder after the departure of Victor Wanayma, later reported that the injury was not something to be concerned about, although admitted his disappointment in the defeat to United.
He posted on Instagram: “Sad for the defeat. Nothing serious from my injury. Thanks for your messages and support.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted a brace to down Saints at Old Trafford, where they had tasted victory in successive seasons.
It was a defeat that saw Saints create well, but fail to forge real clear-cut chances, with their shooting leaving much to be desired.
The impact of Hojbjerg was again very clear, his ability on the ball is suggesting that he is a great addition to the team after signing for £12m from Bayern Munich.
The importance of a result against Sunderland next weekend is now paramount as Saints look to kick start their season under Puel.
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