Hasenhuttl revels in ‘new Saints identity’ as they beat Sheff Utd

Ralph Hasenhuttl has revealed he wants to continue the ‘new identity’ at Southampton as they moved up to 23 points with victory over Sheff Utd.

The home side dominated the ball early on and went ahead thanks to former Blades forward Che Adams.

Poor defending from Sheff Utd saw Adams meet the ball in the box. He managed to poke home from close range in the 34th-minute.

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Chris Wilder’s United came out with more impetus at the start of the second half, but this was soon eradicated as the Saints took control once again.

They made it two in the 62nd-minute as Danny Ings found Stuart Armstrong. The Scottish player hit the ball near the edge of the box.

It was deflected off the foot of Phil Jagielka and went past keeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Substitute Nathan Redmond secured all three points in the 83rd-minute as he swept the ball into the far corner with a great finish.

Speaking after the impressive performance, Hasenhuttl told reporters: “It was another very good game against an opponent who never gives up. We struggled in the past against teams that defend deep but now we have more solutions, patience and quality on the ball.

“It is about believing in the time we get to score. The times we scored were perfect. It is not easy to play against a team that have nothing to lose at 2-0.

“In front of our fans it is a different experience to take away. It was emotional. It is so nice to have them back. You can feel how much they enjoy watching us. We wanted to show how much we have learned during their time away. We have made some big developments.

“Every part of our game has improved. We try to look at every part of our game. We have built something here. They all know exactly what they need to do. It is a new identity for this club and one we want to push.

“Now we need everyone because we have so many games. We play intense but I think that is what people want to see.”