Southampton’s poor run continued at the London Stadium on Saturday and a 3-1 defeat means they have now won just once in six matches.
They have also lost on their previous three visits to West Ham, though things could have been a lot different but for some suspect defending and lacklustre goalkeeping.
Alex McCarthy has been an important member of the team for much of the season with 26 goals conceded in the 18 league games he has played, but Hasenhuttl criticised his performance at the weekend.
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He failed to deal with an aerial ball, being outjumped by Sebastien Haller, who then tucked the ball home to put the Hammers 2-1 up, leading Hasenhuttl to comment:
“Alex was not able to catch a ball in the air against a player who is jumping to the ball with his head.
“He should have punched it away far outside the box because then nothing would have happened.”
That shows the Austrian was unhappy with McCarthy’s display and that could lead him to consider recalling Angus Gunn to the side, but judging by the responses below that may not be a popular decision.
It was indeed a terrible mistake, but he made amends in the second-half with a brilliant save when Michail Antonio went through one-on-one, which is perhaps why some supporters have come to his defence.
The above reactions show how much his efforts this season have been appreciated, as prior to his involvement Saints had conceded four against Chelsea and nine against Leicester with Gunn between the sticks.
As a result, fans still support McCarthy being chosen ahead of his teammate, particularly as soon after he replaced the 24-year-old Southampton started the run that took them out of the relegation zone and up to mid-table.
While one fan shares the view that McCarthy is the best choice, he has suggested that the club ought to pursue an upgrade in the summer, which is a little harsh considering the former Reading man hasn’t done much wrong this season, making just two mistakes that lead to goals.
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