The 2016/17 Premier League campaign has finally drawn to its curtain call and Southampton have finished the season in eighth place.
On paper, a finish as high as this is a somewhat commendable achievement for the club, who have now finished in the top half of the table for the fourth year in a row. However, at a total of just 46 points – 17 less than the 63 which were racked up last season – the collective discontent of the Southampton faithful is somewhat understandable.
Saints crashed out of the FA Cup in the fourth round, failed to even break out of the Europa League group stages but managed to reach the final of the EFL Cup, falling short to Manchester United late on.
It’s been a mixed season for the club and one that should prove to be a learning curve.
So, without further ado, here are my 2016/17 end of season awards for Southampton!
Player of the season
It can only be one man for me, and that’s Oriol Romeu. He’s been absolutely superb week-in, week-out and has established himself as one of Saints’ best and most important players.
Young player of the season
I’ll give this one to Jack Stephens. He’s stepped in when Saints were badly in need of a cool, defensive head and has provided us with a really good centre-back option.
Academy player of the season
This one, for me, can only go to Josh Sims. The young winger burst onto the scene this season and has shown some really promising signs when he’s featured. A big future beckons.
Surprise package of the season
Cedric Soares. Before the start of the campaign, there were a few question marks as to whether or not he’d cut it this season and whether or not he’d kick on. However, he’s emerged as one of the best right backs in the country and has been simply outstanding.
Disappointment of the season
This was between Fraser Forster and Dusan Tadic, but I’ve gone for the former. The consensus was that Forster would really flourish in his first full, injury-free season at the club but in fact, he’s been a liability. He’s had two outstanding games all season and has been dodgy for the rest, in all honesty.
Best signing
I was close to giving this one to Manolo Gabbiadini, but I reckon Nathan Redmond deserves this accolade. He started the season brightly but had a really poor spell of form until about February time. Since then though, he’s come into his own and has become one of Saints’ most potent attackers and has become a full England international. The lowly fee of £10 million is looking to be a bargain now.
Goal of the season
It just has to be Sofiane Boufal’s wonder-goal against Sunderland. The touch, shift onto his right foot and curling strike was a thing of beauty.
An honourable mention should also go to Nathan Redmond’s goal at Middlesbrough; the build-up was excellent and the finish was sublime.
Most improved player
How can it be anyone but Maya Yoshida? From a liability to a key asset. He’s been absolutely brilliant filling the boots of both Jose Fonte and Virgil van Dijk this season and deserves enormous credit for the way in which he’s stepped up.
Highlight of the season
For me, it’s Gabbiadini’s equaliser at Wembley. I’ve never had a feeling quite like that when I’ve seen Saints score and it was just a totally overwhelming moment.
Lowlight of the season
Hapoel Be’er Sheva. That’s all I need to say.
Team performance of the season
Although we lost, it has to be the performance at Wembley in the EFL Cup final. The football was superb and the determination, passion and desire shown by the collective was something else.
Individual performance of the season
This was a tricky one. Jack Stephens’ performance at Liverpool was special, Steven Davis’ introduction at Bournemouth revitalised the team, but I’m going to go with Virgil van Dijk’s performance at home to Liverpool in the league.
Never have I seen a Southampton player as imperious and strong as he was on that day. He was absolutely magnificent.