Southampton sealed a precious 0-0 result last weekend against Manchester City. The point earned ensured that the Saints overcame the dread of finishing the season tied with Derby County on 11 points, which would let them have shared ownership of the worst team in Premier League history.
Despite the shortcomings in the season, Tyler Dibbling has been a player that has shone and made his case to be playing in the premier league next campaign. Four goals and two assists for the 19-year-old is a decent return for someone playing in his first full season with the senior team, as well as his first taste of top flight football.
The winger has been involved in transfer rumors of late with Southampton placing Dibling with a £100m price tag. With the team relegated and requiring a rebuild, it is likely this price will drop, but not due to lack of interest. Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have all been linked with the player recently showing the quality he possesses.
Dibling will offer a threat on the right wing on Sunday if he happens to play. He will offer a youthfulness and have freedom to make his impact. Vitalii Mykolenko will need to be on his best form to ensure the winger doesn’t spoil the party on L4.
Described by ex-manager Russel Martin as “the most talented player” he has ever seen, there will many fans in the stadium on the Blue side keen to see the quality of the youngster. Depending on the project Dibling sees himself wanting to be a part of, Everton may even throw their hat in for the chance to get his signature.
The Saints will have an eye already to next season, Simon Rusk tasked with the interim managerial role, will also be aware these next two games offer the club the chance to see which players will be worthy of the go at promotion next season. Dibling certainly fits the bill but will management will likely be forced into selling their prized asset.
The game at Goodison provides a free hit for the travelling side, a danger for Everton who will feel pressure going into the game to make the occasion as memorable as they can. Southampton will likely offer a different threat then they did to Manchester City last week with more license to attack.
Ruben Dias had strong thoughts on the Saint performance last week, “They don’t even try to play, just wasting time the whole game. It’s not good for anyone.”
Although the Toffees will ultimately want all three points, the stadium and fans deserve a game that matches the magnitude of the day. Attacking play from both sides will be welcomed to ensure there is excitement. A repeat of their City performance would be a shame for both fans, especially given the miles their fans will have travelled.
For Tyler Dibling, Sunday provides the opportunity to perform at a stadium that has housed greats of the game from all over the world. Although he may not have any affiliation with the Toffees, he can mark his name in the history books on the Grand Old Lady’s final day.