Manchester City 2-1 Southampton: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis

#4 Redmond's subtlety, Ings' tireless work key to Saints early success

Redmond and Ings were important in different ways, despite struggling to create chances after their opener

It's fitting that in this fixture two seasons ago, Pep received criticism for his impassioned post-match discussion with Nathan Redmond. After all, Redmond wasn't one of his players. Confronting him as he did could be construed as a number of things, not least arrogance and disrespect towards an opponent: which could've easily escalated if context of their conversation was not quickly apparent.

Two years on, Redmond was quietly instrumental in Southampton's success here while reiterating how frustrating he can be to watch too. Despite being a winger by trade, he started alongside Danny Ings in Ralph Hasenhuttl's two-pronged attack. Pre-match, he would've been made aware their chances would probably be scarce against a City side who love possession galore, with discipline and patience being tested.

His role in the build-up to Ward-Prowse's opener cannot be understated. Having beaten his marker down the flank, he scanned for options and patiently waited before teeing up Armstrong on the edge of the box.

Subtle moves and decisions like these proved crucial in Southampton earning their early advantage - though one they couldn't retain in the dying embers. Redmond completed three of his four attempted dribbles, carried the ball well and was equally an off-the-ball threat just like strike partner Ings as City were harried into quick distribution.

As to be expected, the pair's influence waned once the Citizens asserted their foothold on the match but neither was really afforded a proper goalscoring opportunity. City fans were nonetheless forced to endure a few heart-in-mouth moments when John Stones and Ederson in particular relinquished possession cheaply or looked certain to, under immense pressure from Southampton's frontmen who led by example with their relentless pressing and defensive contributions.

Between them, their match stats: 10 duels won, three tackles and dribbles completed, two key passes, one interception and blocked shot. They were unlucky not to prevail.