Starting on the bench for the first time in the league this season in Southampton’s 1-0 over Crystal Palace, Manolo Gabbiadini’s struggles in front of goal could be a cause for worry.
After all, the man who took the Premier League by storm last season following his January transfer window move to St Mary’s from Napoli, has only scored one goal in six appearances this season, and his relegation to the sidelines could suggest Mauricio Pellegrino is losing faith in him.
However, the player’s agent, Silvio Pagliari, used TuttoMercatoWeb Radio to reassure everyone that all was swell in Southampton, and that his client is happy.
He said: “Gabbiadini’s adventure at Southampton is going well. The team is alternating between good and bad results, but that’s the Premier League. Results are a little shaky, but Manolo is doing fine.”
Furthermore, the representative touched upon Gabbiadini’s chances of making the Italy squad for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and things haven’t changed.
He added: “Mr Ventura has always selected him. He’s a versatile striker who can play in multiple roles up front. He has to be on that plane for Russia, as Manolo has scored everywhere. All that’s missing is finding the back of the net in a World Cup. We hope he can score in Russia as well.”
So, if any Southampton fans were worrying about Pellegrino’s decision and what that could mean for their star striker, the player seems OK with it for now.
After scoring six goals in his first four games for the Saints, including two in the EFL Cup final against Manchester United, Gabbiadini has only managed to find the back of the net once in his last 14 competitive appearances.
