Southampton star Armel Bella-Kotchap looks set to make his return from injury this weekend when they take on Eddie Howe’s high-flying Mags on the South Coast.
The 20-year-old has been outstanding since he arrived from Vfl Bochum in the summer, looking tailor-made for the Premier League prior to a shoulder injury that has seen him miss the Saints’ last three games.
Bella-Kotchap has been crucial to the side’s defence, recording the most interceptions per 90 (2.3), averaging the highest WhoScored rating of any Southampton player and forming a solid partnership with Mohamed Salisu.
His good form has been recognised and rewarded by his national side as the centre-back made his first appearance for Germany in their enthralling 3-3 draw against England back in September.
Although the two sides are battling at opposite ends of the table so far, his return comes at just the right time for the hosts, who will need his pace and power to contain an in-form Callum Wilson looking to fire his way to the World Cup.
In terms of our own squad, Allan Saint-Maximin is in contention to replace the suspended Joelinton and start for the first time since August after he too returned to training this week.
Must be desperately short of ideas if this constitutes an article, particularly on a Toon fansite.
He’s a pretty average kid and I doubt that the likes of Wilson and co will be panicking over you headline.
Helen Clarey(Quote)