He’s been crucial to the Saints this season.
While Southampton’s hard-fought Championship victory over Huddersfield Town extended their unbeaten streak to 22 games, the loss of a key player to injury will create concern among Saints fans.
Southampton Injury Updates
In what has been probably the most competitive Championship season in years, Southampton has emerged as one of the frontrunners for promotion back to the Premier League. Russell Martin’s team has been unstoppable in recent weeks, sitting second in the league after 30 games played.
The key to Southampton’s ongoing success this season will be keeping players fit. Stuart Armstrong and Che Adams were forced to leave early on Saturday due to knocks, but Martin said neither had suffered significant injuries. Good news for Saints fans was the return of Kamaldeen Sulemana, who suffered a hamstring injury in December.
While the Saints have avoided any kind of injury catastrophe this season, the loss of one player will be cause for concern.
Key Southampton player lost due to injury.
Forced to leave the field of play with just over half an hour remaining, Martin will now have a nervous wait to see how long he will be without midfielder Flynn Downes. The loss of a midfielder was characterized as “a huge, huge blow” by local journalist Alfie House.
Martin stated after the game that they will assess Flynn (Downes)’ injury. We have a hectic schedule right now.”
The 25-year-old has been important since joining on loan from West Ham this summer, appearing 23 times in Southampton’s effort to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking. The Europa Conference League winner, a technical midfielder who is at ease with the ball at his feet, has settled in well in the second division.
Downes has thrived in Martin’s possession-focused system. Downes, who orchestrates play in the middle of the park, is sixth among Championship midfielders in terms of passes completed per ninety, serving as the spark for Southampton’s progressive approach. While passing is his trademark, Downes is rarely afraid to be physical in the game. Despite his 5’6 height, the Englishman can compete with some of the league’s finest, averaging more than two tackles per game and one and a half interceptions.
This aspect of his game has inspired Martin to sing his praises. Back in October, he praised his loanee, telling reporters:
“Flynn has been monstrous.” He is a physical beast who keeps his cool on the court. His teammates admire his job since it is difficult to be that guy.”
“He’s huge for us. He has really stepped up and been fantastic. He offers the team an advantage and keeps the ball moving. He is aggressive in driving the ball forward. The next stage for him is to influence games in this manner.”
Fortunately for fans, Southampton have a suitable substitute for Downes in the form of January acquisition Joe Rothwell, who arrived on loan from Bournemouth and scored twice against Hudderfield.
