Puel backs Gardos to take his chance at Saints

Jose Fonte’s departure from Southampton has opened the door to Florin Gardos and boss Claude Puel has challenged the centre half to take full advantage.

The Romanian defender has been with the Saints for over two years but through a combination of form and fitness has only played 11 games for the club.

A serious knee injury has slowed his progress but he has featured for the Under-23s of late and was on the bench against Norwich in the FA Cup in midweek.

With Fonte departed, Virgil van Dijk will partner Maya Yoshida at centre back but Gardos and Jack Stephens could also come into contention.

Saints boss Puel said: “It’s a long time with a lot injuries for Gardos, but he came back for the under-23s before this game (Norwich) with a good level and we will see if we just have Jack (Stephens) and Florin (Gardos) or you might see another player.

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

“Florin comes back in at an interesting level. We know he’s had different injuries and we will see in the reflection to see if Florin can participate with the squad at a good level. We will see this.

“It’s other qualities than Jose, but I think I’m happy with the situation and with Yoshida and Van Dijk.

“It’s a strong defence – a strong central defence, with technical and with good quality in the duels. Sometimes, with injury or a player with a red card, it’s important to consider if it’s enough with Jack and Florin to give a solution.”