Wesley Hoedt is never afraid of sharing his opinion.
Whether it be sending snipes via the European media to Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl, or talking up his own ability to play at the highest level, the Dutchman is frequently happy to say things as he sees it.
Still owned by the Saints, the defender is now on his third loan away from the club. Moves to Celta Vigo and Antwerp had mixed success, and he’ll be hoping to grasp the very fortunate opportunity given to him by Lazio.
Hoedt left the Serie A club in 2017 for Southampton and then failed to live up to the hype which he’d managed to build for himself in Rome. His return there on loan hasn’t been greeted without reservation, and media and fans alike will be ready to criticise if things go wrong.
Quoted by CalcioLine, Hoedt said: “I know there are doubts but I will give everything for this shirt. I come back with more experience, I have played many more games in three different countries, where I have learned a lot. I definitely feel improved and matured compared to my first adventure in biancoceleste. Now I don’t want to think about the past, I just look forward and do well. I was wrong to leave Lazio, but now I’m happy to have the opportunity to change everything. I also feel ready to take to the field immediately, I just have to find the rhythm of the match. I can play in all positions, I make myself available to the team.”
Lazio have a buying option and Southampton will hope that’s used, otherwise the 26-year-old will be their problem again next summer.
