Gabbiadini surprised by speedy start to Southampton career

Southampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini admits his fast start to life in the Premier League has surprised even him.

The Italian striker moved to St Mary’s from Napoli in January and immediately hit the ground running, scoring six times for the Saints including two in the EFL Cup final against Manchester United.

The 25-year-old has been rewarded for his stellar performances and was named the Premier League’s PFA Fans’ Player of the Month for February, beating the likes of Everton’s Romelu Lukaku and Tottenham striker Harry Kane to the gong.

And while Gabbiadini admits that football in England far different to that in Italy, after his fast start he is loving life on the south coast.

“I’ve completely changed my football,” Gabbiadini said. “Everything is completely different here: the city, the people. I didn’t believe I would start like this.

“I need to thank all my teammates and the coach, who have been extraordinary and have all been there for me.

“The difference here to Italy is that it’s all ‘enjoy’ here, as they say; it’s all entertainment both for us and for the fans, whether you win or lose.

“All that matters is you give everything because that’s the only way you can make people happy.”