A number of Southampton fans have been hammering the impact that Shane Long was able to have from the bench during the Saints’ goalless draw at home to West Ham on Tuesday evening.
It was a frustrating night for Southampton, which began with the news that Ralph Hasenhuttl had to miss out on attending the game through him having to self-isolate. The Saints continued to struggle in front of goal, which has been a theme in their last few matches, but they were at least able to pick up another valuable point.
One player who struggled to have the desired impact on the game in the final third was Long, who was brought on for his ninth substitute appearance of the campaign with 32 minutes left to play. However, the 81-cap Republic of Ireland international could not add any quality to the final third of the field failing to have a single shot or make a single key pass and having just 13 touches (Sofascore).
Long has been a very reliable servant for the Saints throughout his time with the club and he recently signed a new two-year deal. However, he has failed to have much of an impact this term failing to score or provide an assist in ten Premier League appearances and averaging just eight touches per game (Sofascore).
Southampton fans react over Long’s impact
Many Southampton fans were all of the belief that Long’s time at St Mary’s is coming to an end and that they need to be looking at making another forward addition to their squad. While there were just others who were questioning why he was coming on ahead of some of the club’s other younger attacking options.
Struggling for goals an our only option is Shane Long. Need reinforcements in January. #SaintsFC
— MLC (@mattlc180) December 29, 2020
I suppose it’s another clean sheet, that’s something. We need to strengthen our striking options on the bench, long doesn’t fit our system anymore #Saintsfc
— Dan (@_I_AM_DAN_) December 29, 2020
https://twitter.com/newington13/status/1344008769890562050?s=19
Frustrated ain't the word, Bertrand needs replacing, Djenepo isn't good enough, Long is finished, sort Danny's contract out so it's off his mind and we need some more creative players. #SaintsFC
— Overly happy Coops 😒 (@miserygutscoop) December 29, 2020
Shane Long’s time is surely over in the premier league, decent servant for us over the years but offers nothing now. We looked much worse when he replaced Adams. #SaintsFC
— George Miller (@georgemilla3699) December 29, 2020
Someone please tell me what Ralph sees in Shane Long #SaintsFC
— Sam (@Sam_SFC_) December 29, 2020
Would be nice to delve into the transfer market when it opens. Need Another pacy winger with a bit more direction, Djenepo isn't cutting it. We also need another striker, Long hasn't offered us anything in the past 2 games. We must spend to push up the table. #saintsfc #SOUWHU
— Ben Brown (@Benlarrrr) December 29, 2020
