One of the most exciting talents in England is starring for Southampton - and it’s not who you think it is
Southampton have been one of the worst teams in Premier League history this season, maybe even the worst. There have been little-to-no redeeming qualities or any shining lights within this Saints side that will keep fans optimistic about the future.
That is, apart from two players.
Tyler Dibling is the obvious one that will come to many Prem fans’ minds. It’s easy to see why. Only 19 years of age, English, electrifying talent and ball-carrying way ahead of his years - Dibling is a special player but even Southampton fans will tell you that he is still raw as his decision-making still needs work, but that’s no problem and it will improve with age.
The other Southampton player I’m talking about has gone under many people’s radar. It’s easy to forget that he is barely a year older than Dibling and yet his performances and constant showcases of quality in an abhorrent premier league side, show a player that I wouldn’t blame you for thinking that he’s in his mid twenties.
Mateus Fernandes has easily been Southampton’s best player. Every game, it seems that nearly any of the quality that is produced by the Saints, will see Fernandes at the heart of it. In a team that is always chopping and changing, the Portuguese attacking midfielder seems to be the only constant. His teammates look to him for inspiration on the pitch and he often delivers through weaving dribbles or magnificent passes that create chances for his team out of nothing.
It’s easy to forget that, like Dibling, this is Fernandes’ first taste of Premier League football and he has passed every test with flying colours. He ranks in the top 2% of midfielders across Europe for take-ons completed and top 6% for carries into the final third, whilst alternatively ranking in the top 14% for tackles completed per game. His work-rate off the ball is immense and he is assured and audacious enough on the ball to stand out in such a poor team.
A number 10 who isn’t afraid to work hard - Mateus Fernandes has taken to Premier League life very well this season and yet hasn’t captured the attention of the mainstream media such as his teammate Dibling whilst being arguably the better player this campaign. With Southampton already going down, there’s little chance that Fernandes goes down with him as his performances in England will definitely have captured the attention of many big clubs across Europe.
He’s likely to be available for a cheap fee that won’t reflect the on-the-pitch value he provides. Whichever team he joins next will be acquiring someone on the brink of exploding into one of the best young midfielders in the country. Don’t be surprised if in a few years, Mateus Fernandes is a household name.
