I always felt that Shane Long exemplified for me what a pro footballer should be like. The criticisms about lack of goals ignore the fact that be being a constant nuisance , he freed up opportunities for his partners leading the line. There a few players in recent years who have played with such commitment. I dont think he ever gave less than 100%. As in all walks of life, Shane Long demonstrated that you should never give up on seemingly lost causes and he exemplified the kind of personality I would appreciated as a work collegue. I have nothing but praise for him.
Reading some of the more negative comments on this thread, I am reminded by the remarks of an Arsenal supporting collegue who always argued that Shane Long was perceived as a real threat by opposition teams and that he was,perhaps, more highly considered by supporters of other teams than among some of the Southampton faithful. I think genuine fans knew his worth and, in my opinion, he was a model pro. I wish him the best for the future and thank him for his efforts whilst at St Mary's. If only more players had his attitude......