Boufal and Gaston seem very similar in that they clearly are talented footballers, even at PL level they stand out in terms of their touch and ability. Gaston couldn't get to grips with the pace of the game in England and has now gone back to Italy. Boufal isn't as slow as Gaston on the ball, but tries too much and has been caught out, but is still obviously a very good player, if he can adapt to the speed of the game. Hopefully he can as he has some of the best feet I've seen in a Saints shirt and if he gets up with the speed he will be elite.
Different to Gaston, Gaston just could not be arsed esp at Boro. I think Boufal really wants to do well, and if given a run of games should come on alot
This could be the problem. We need to get him putting his feet into some boots. Ps. I do agree with your post, just couldn't resist this
http://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2017/southampton-circling-for-billel-hassaini/ Saints apparently put in an offer for 16-yr-old Billel Hassaini earlier in the window. Whilst I hope (for Saints' sake) that Boufal comes good, I won't be holding my breath. I'm not afraid when he comes on the pitch, but neither am I excited. To me he is just a player who comes on to give someone a rest.
Boufal I think is excellent when he doesn't have to try so hard, and plays natural. The other night, I thought he looked excellent at first, then he began to try too hard to please. That meant trying to beat the same man 3-4 times and not releasing the easy pass. If I were MP2 I would say you are on the pitch unless there is an injury, don't worry about making a mistake or two and play your game. He always seems to be too worried to please in my book if you get what I mean.
I couldn't agree more. I'd like to see him given a run over Tadic to see if he can nail down a place.
Starting to feel like Boufal has given up. And how we could do with him stepping up right now. So frustrating.
The trouble is, playing boufal is a risk at this point. His decision making is absolutely dire. In times when we are exposed, and it's best to play it simple he overcomplicates, gives it away and we are then wide open to be countered. Then once he's lost it he walks back. He also can't cross, or at least he never looks up before attempting to cross. I do agree that he needs a run of games though. Fingers crossed he can be coached and improve.
I agree he makes mistakes and gets trapped wotht the ball, but the Boufal I see is desperate to get back amd defend, charging back and occasionally making a decent challenge. His defensive positioning is poor though.
Interesting how people see the game differently. I think he sulks and has the wrong attitude completely. He just doesn't look like a team player, he tries to do too much. Even little things like the throw-in on Tuesday back to McQueen when McQueen wasn't ready to receive it. Sunday league stuff
Decision making is confidence. Once he starts playing, it'll all come a bit more naturally. We have to give him a chance, surely...
Our aim is to bring young players through and help others develop, but it is harder now than it used to be. We have loftier ambitions now and fans are more demanding....it becomes a balancing act for managers between a results-based business and our image of ourselves as an exceptional club for improving players. Stephens only got his chance because VVD got injured.
My demands are pretty simple. Bust a gut when wearing the shirt. You can make mistakes, but you have to give it your all. He does not tick that box. I'd hire Nigel to follow him around all day whispering into his ear; 'Hard work beats talent if............'
Has he been given a run of games? I think not (from memory) and any player of any sport will tell you that is what you need. To find out if he can deliver, we probably need to bite the bullet and tell him he is starting the next 6 games. Then it's up to him. This won't happen though.
Sorry, are we comparing Boufal & Le Tiss? We knew what Matt did. So far we've paid £18M for 3pts against Boro with SB.
