Southampton signing this 22-year-old young talent after Cedric’s departure strikes the right chords

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Rohan Sengupta

Why Southampton have done well by signing Kyle Walker-Peters on loan

Defender Kyle Walker-Peters moved to Southampton on loan from Premier League rivals Tottenham in the January transfer window.

A product of the Tottenham academy, the Englishman, 22, made only 24 appearances for the Spurs senior team, netting one goal and adding five assists to his tally. He has also represented England at every youth level ranging from the U18s to U21s.

Kyle Walker-Peters of Tottenham Hotspur battles for possession with Kingsley Coman of FC Bayern Munich during the UEFA Champions League group B match between Bayern Muenchen and Tottenham Hotspur at Allianz Arena on December 11, 2019 in Munich, Germany. (Getty Images)
Kyle Walker-Peters of Tottenham Hotspur battles for possession with Kingsley Coman of FC Bayern Munich during the UEFA Champions League group B match between Bayern Muenchen and Tottenham Hotspur at Allianz Arena on December 11, 2019 in Munich, Germany. (Getty Images)

With Serge Aurier the first-choice right-back under Jose Mourinho, it was going to be difficult for Kyle Walker-Peters to get regular opportunities for the remainder of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Southampton allowed right-back Cedric Soares to join Arsenal on loan during the January transfer window. The Saints have had defensive problems this season, especially at right-back, with Cedric blowing hot and cold and youngster Yan Valery battling a nasty viral infection that has kept him out of action since December 31st.

Following Cedric’s departure, Hasenhuttl used James Ward-Prowse at right-back in Southampton’s 4-0 drubbing at Liverpool. In the previous fixture, an FA Cup tie against Tottenham, Kevin Danso started at right-back. That simply proved the Saints’ lack of options in that position and thus, Hasenhuttl signing Walker-Peters on loan is a sensible decision.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl celebrates with his players. (Getty Images)
Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl celebrates with his players. (Getty Images)

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A modern-day full-back, Walker-Peters is talented. Having been devoid of opportunities at Spurs, he has not benefited from the managerial change. Thus, a move to Southampton gives the defender an opportunity to get regular game time.

Verdict

It remains to be seen if Walker-Peters will break into Hasenhuttl’s side at St Mary’s but the Saints have done a smart job by signing the 22-year-old on loan until the end of the season.