Southampton fans have taken to Twitter to drool over Jack Stephens, despite suffering defeat to Tottenham in the FA Cup.
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side endured a 3-2 loss to Jose Mourinho’s men on Wednesday, despite leading in the 72nd minute thanks to goals from Shane Long and Danny Ings.
It was, in fact, an own goal from Stephens in the 12th minute which had put Southampton behind, as Tanguy Ndombele’s shot ricocheted off the 26-year-old and flew past Angus Gunn in between the sticks.
Despite that unfortunate moment, he clearly still did enough to leave the Southampton fans on Twitter starry-eyed over his display.
Stephens has made 17 Premier League appearances this season, scoring one goal and recording three assists, while winning one WhoScored Man of the Match award.
Late goals from Lucas Moura and Heung-min Son meant that Hasenhuttl’s men crashed out of the FA Cup, although seeing as they are currently just six points off Tottenham in fifth, perhaps it could be a blessing in disguise as they can focus on the Premier League.
Let’s see what the Southampton fans on Twitter have been saying about the centre-back…
To kick off the discussion, Lee Myers seemed shocked by Stephens’ recent displays, asking “where has this form come from?” – Lee also added that the former Plymouth Argyle man has been “fantastic”.
Elsewhere, ‘Ralph’s Revolution’ added that Stephens positioning with his body and on the pitch, as well as his decision making, have been “outstanding” – this fan outlined that the two reasons for this are his “superb attitude” and also the fact that he has been “brilliantly coached”.
Tom Holland then mentioned that “his reading of the game at the moment is unreal” while also feeling as if “the game has just totally slowed down for” the Southampton No.5.
Meanwhile, Ian Thompson stated that Stephens has “really grown and matured this season”.
Andrew Leakey then added that he has “always admired his never say die attitude” while also stating that the defender is “passionate” as well.
Lastly, Jordan simply branded Stephens as the “Cornish Maldini” – a huge claim.
For away day veterans only: Can you name all of these defunct stadiums?
In other news, this Southampton man has said that he’ll “have to think” about his future…
