Further optimistic signs ahead of the Euros. With Vincent Kompany ruled out of the European Championships, Belguim will likely pair clubmates Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld at centre-back throughout the Championships. Southampton's trip to White Hart Lane offered Shane Long the opportunity to test himself against the defenders he will face in June, and it was a test he passed with flying colours. Long was Southampton's sole front
Long was Southampton's sole front man, and consistently ran in behind the Spurs defence. Long's willingness to hang on the shoulder of the centre-backs and use his pace to get in behind them meant that Tottenham were forced to sit slightly deeper than they regularly do, and as a result their pressing game was less effective than usual.
Long also made a number of extremely impressive and intelligent runs, and was a menace for Spurs all afternoon. Long spent the first hour of the game running in behind the Spurs defence, although should have scored with a header in a fine position in the 53rd minute:
"That's what lets Shane Long down.....no anticipation" - Ray's assessment of our in-form striker.
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) May 8, 2016
Graziano Pelle was brought on at the 72nd-minute mark, but tellingly, Long did not make way for the Italian, instead remaining up front. From here, his hold-up play was vital, a fine outlet for Southampton to run the channels and ease the pressure of the Spurs onslaught. This, to be fair, is closer to the role he will play for Ireland in June. Either way, he was proved capable of mixing it with Vertonghen and Alderweireld.
Shane Long could be the most underrated player in the league.
— - (@cannonviews) May 8, 2016
Really poor show today. Mason and vertonghen equally pish. Couldnt deal with Shane long all game #THFC
— Paul Knight #FullyCOYS (@paulknight20) May 8, 2016
Long is morphing into the all-round striker, and that is good news ahead of the Euros. Although someone should tell this guy...
