Saints’ McQueen: Puel is one of the best

Claude Puel is one of the best managers in the Premier League – that is the view of Southampton defender Sam McQueen.

The 21-year-old academy graduate has made six appearances to date this season and was full of praise for the Frenchman.

Puel signed a three-year deal at St Mary’s in the summer filling the void left by Ronald Koeman who departed for Everton.

“I think he has to be up there with some of the best managers in the Premier League,” said McQueen.

“He’s worked fantastically to create a squad that can compete at the level that we want.

“He’s different to other mangers I’ve had in the past and I’ve enjoyed working with him and he is a really nice man too.

(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

“We can dominate matches, which is impressive. He has brought a lot of positive things and the more we buy into his philosophy, the better things will be.”

McQueen added that his loan move to Southend United was key to his development and ability to shine this season.

“I know a lot of people say a loan shows you’re not needed at the club you’re at but I learnt a lot about first-team football, what I should and shouldn’t be doing,” he added.

“There are so many talented players in academies but first-team level is different and so I’ve surprised myself with how I managed to deal with it but ability wise and technically wise I’ve always been confident in myself.”