2017/18 Season Review - Ryan Bertrand
Was this the last season at St Mary's for Ryan Bertrand ? we will soon find out, in the meantime how good or bad was it ?
The perception for many Saints fans was that Ryan Bertrand was disinterested for much of this season, that he was sulking that he was not getting the big money moves that some of his former team mates had got, certainly he has been linked with moves to several of the big six clubs, but they never seem to materialise asking the question whether there was any real substance in the rumours.
But the left back still had a solid performance for Saints, his statistics were remarkably similar to Cedric Soares on the other flank with 4 assists and 3 big chances created and he certainly should have ended the season with a goal or two, hitting the woodwork twice and sadly failing to find the net when through on goal on a number of occasions.
But he too had the same problem as Cedric on the right, defensively if he went forward our central defenders couldn't cope on the break and when he went forward to put in crosses too often there was no one on the end of them.
He should really be going to the World Cup this summer, his form justified it when compared to those who are going in his place, so perhaps Gareth Southgate saw something in his attitude that made him question his commitment.
In fairness to Bertrand he seems to have that ability to look moody at any given occasion so perhaps he was trying harder than Saints fans would think.
Again like Cedric I think we would find it hard to get a better player in, I would prefer him to stay as playing in a back four with two decent central defenders that can defend would undoubtedly benefit not only Bertrand's form but in doing that the team's as well.
If Bertrand was to go then personally I think he deserves a move, he has given four good seasons for the club, but we have also been god for him, he has gone from a Chelsea reserve spending much of his time on loan, to an established Premier League player and International.
I hope that he stays, but I wish him all the best if he goes.
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