Unexpectedly, on-loan Javier Hernandez remains unsettled despite under the watchful gaze of those that flock to the Bernabeu. However, kept out of the first team by Madrid men – in particular Cristiano Ronaldo – it doesn’t come as a surprise that the 26-year-old is incomparable.
Saints are not without competition in the race to sign Manchester United’s shunned striker as West Ham are known to have expressed interest. A return to either of his current clubs is highly unlikely for the 2015/16 campaign and therefore, several of Ronald Koeman’s rivals are on red alert at his availability. Spurs especially could entice Hernandez as their chances of Europe look increasingly likely ahead of Southampton. This hasn’t stopped Stoke and Everton also from tracking the target.
Six matches only drawing two goals from the South Coast outfit highlights the desperate need for a partnering frontman for struggling Pelle. The gaffer would have been unable to bring the Mexican international in during the transfer window and perhaps this is why no approach was made for another goalscorer. Reignited hopes of Jay Rodriguez’s long awaited return have been doused could too have provoked Koeman’s regret at not acting on his squads needs in January.
£12m signing Shane Long hasn’t met expectations, four goals for a season not quite enough to live up to his price tag. But hey, we all make mistakes! We can only hope in the meantime that Southampton can strike it lucky in order to return to fine form and cling on to last aspirations of a top four finish. Those forwards hitting the back of the net once more could really aid the cause.
