Southampton’s survival hopes were handed a massive boost following a hard-fought 2-1 win against Leicester.

The Saints took the lead early with James Ward-Prowse netting from the penalty spot before Ralph Hassenhuttl’s men were reduced to ten-men with Yan Valery receiving his marching orders for a second yellow card. Their lead was doubled with Shane Long scoring his first goal in nine months on the stroke of half-time. Wilfred Ndidi clawed one back but Southampton held on for a massive three points.

Long’s goal will be a massive relief to Hassenhuttl with Danny Ings, Charlie Austin and Michael Obafemi out injured. The Irishman’s goal record is not good enough and the Saints should target attacking reinforcements following Manolo Gabbiadini’s exit last week. Signing a regular goalscorer could be key to staying in the division.

The perfect target would be Brentford hitman – Neal Maupay. Valued at just £4.5m by Transfermarkt, the Frenchman has been a key player for the Bees since joining from Saint Etienne in the summer of 2017. Maupay wowed fans in his debut season at the club, netting 12 goals as well as registering four assists for his team-mates.

The forward has taken his game to the next level in the current campaign, finding the back of the net 15 times in just 25 appearances in the Championship so far. The 22-year-old has also turned provider at times, creating six goals, showing he is the complete forward. The youngster is still developing and improving – his form in England so far shows Maupay deserves to be playing at the highest level.

In a squad of Southampton’s quality, the former France U21 international would be scoring for fun – he can be the man to steer them away from danger in 2019.

Southampton fans, thoughts?