This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
After eight games of the 2019/20 campaign, we think it’s a good time to give our verdicts on a few summer signings.
In Southampton’s case, they made only three new additions back in the summer, while Danny Ings’ loan move was automatically turned into a permanent one due to the Saints’ obligation to Liverpool.
As a result of the No.9 not being a new face, we have left him out of this list.
Besides Ings though, let’s have a go at ranking Southampton’s newest additions to the squad in Moussa Djenepo, Che Adams and Kevin Danso.
Moussa Djenepo
The Mali international arrived from Standard Liege as somewhat of an unknown quantity, and also turned up with a lot of expectation on his shoulders having cost £15m.
Djenepo has struggled to stay fit, but has shown signs of becoming a real talisman for the Saints in his three Premier League appearances so far.
The 21-year-old has scored two goals, both of which were match-winners, as he netted the opener against Brighton and the only goal against Sheffield United.
Without his goals, the Saints would have just one point, so it’s safe to say he’s been a hit – the only blot on his copybook has been his lack of availability.
8/10
Kevin Danso
The Austrian centre-back has only featured once in his most natural position for the Saints, but there have been signs of life in the 21-year-old.
A red card against Manchester United highlighted his inexperience, but he did record the assist in that 1-1 draw with a brilliant cross onto Jannik Vestergaard’s head.
Danso – like Djenepo – has made just three league appearances, and it’s hard to give him too much praise given his inconsistent start.
5/10
Che Adams
Arguably the Saints marquee signing back in the summer – he cost £15m after hitting 22 goals for Birmingham last term – Adams has disappointed.
The 23-year-old is yet to score a goal for the south coast side in seven appearances, and was dropped for the most recent outing against Chelsea.
He is still young and is also new to the Premier League, but Adams needs to do more.
4/10