Will Still: Southampton kind ‘not enjoyable or pleasurable’

Southampton’s good efficiency however 2-1 defeat by Liverpool of their Carabao Cup third-round assembly at Anfield is an ideal instance of their present issues, in response to boss Will Still.

The Saints hit the woodwork early within the tie in opposition to the Premier League leaders, earlier than a mistake by goalkeeper Alex McCarthy handed the house facet the lead. Liverpool went on to win with a late objective from Hugo Ekitike after Shea Charles had equalised for Still’s facet.

“We’ve done a lot of really positive things in the first half, hit the crossbar, somehow missed the goal and they go up the other end and we’ve put it on a plate for them, which is frustrating but a reflection of the direction we’re going in,” the top coach informed BBC Radio Solent.

“We’re consistently inconsistent, which is annoying. We’re conceding too many goals, too cheaply, so we need to urgently sort that out.”

Still made 9 modifications to his facet from the one which was overwhelmed 3-1 at Hull City within the Championship final weekend and was inspired by the efficiency.

“The players who were out there stood up, made themselves accountable and put in an interesting performance,” he added.

“I’m disappointed for them they couldn’t reap the rewards of a good performance but it’s where we’re at.

“It’s not enjoyable, it is not very pleasurable, however we have to hold believing in it, hammering away, hold plugging away, as a result of that is the one manner it is going to work.”

Southampton return to motion at house to Championship leaders Middlesbrough on Saturday, 27 September (15:00 BST).