Many Southampton fans applauded the performance of defender Jan Bednarek after his side's 2-0 victory against Sheffield United on Saturday.

The 24-year-old centre-back started for the 27th time during the 2020/21 Premier League as the Saints came out on top at Bramall Lane against the struggling Blades.

A first half penalty from James Ward-Prowse and a rocket from Che Adams sealed the deal for the visitors, which eased the woes of Danny Ings leaving the field injured before the 20-minute mark.

Bednarek, who has deputised at right-back on three occasions recently, was back in his natural position and shone for Ralph Hasenhuttl's side from a defensive point of view.

Per Sofascore, the Polish defender made seven clearances, four interceptions and three tackles as Southampton successfully kept a clean sheet in south Yorkshire.

Unsurprisingly, many supporters were pleased with Bednarek's "immense" performance and were reassured to see him excel when back in his natural position. One fan said the 27-year-old was "solid as usual", a fair comment as the Pole has made more interceptions per game and won the second-most aerial duels of any Saints player this season, per WhoScored:

Bednarek earns St Mary's plaudits

"Bednarek was very good today. Salisu looks a Ferrari, but Bednarek is a Honda."

Credit: @EFranzo17

"Huge shoutout for Bednarek today... been getting a little flack after “doing a job” for the team.... back in his “natural” position today and was absolutely brilliant next to big Jan..."

Credit: @JusticeCraig

"So happy for Bednarek after what he’s been through the last few weeks at RB! Could have completely destroyed his confidence but today looked solid again back in his proper position"

Credit: @fishysaints

"Bednarek immense- he *loves* defending. KWP is so good technically and makes such a difference. Absolute rocket from Che. Don’t save those."

Credit: @shirleymush

"The difference in Bednarek's composure from RB to CB is insane"

Credit: @SaintsBlueropa

"Needed those points... Tella played really well and Bednarek solid as usual"

Credit: @philipg1965

In other news, Southampton make an enquiry about £120k-per-week Premier League hitman.