Mateus Fernandes, Southampton’s standout performer this season, has revealed the pivotal role veteran teammate Adam Lallana played in guiding him through a challenging first year in English football. The 20-year-old Portuguese youth international, who has been instrumental for the Saints, leaned on Lallana’s experience following the departure of Russell Martin in December, a transition that initially proved difficult for him.
Fernandes said: “I spoke with Ads when Russell Martin left the club. Russell Martin was very good for me. He (Lallana) spoke to me and said I’m a big player and I need to trust myself. He said ‘You can play for the big teams in England, you just need to enjoy and work hard every day, in every training session’. The most important thing I’ve learned is to train hard.”
Fernandes has been a key figure for Southampton, clocking the second-most minutes of any player on the team this season, only behind Kyle Walker-Peters. With 2,593 minutes under his belt, Fernandes has also found the back of the net twice in his debut Premier League season. His ability to adapt and perform at a high level has been partly attributed to the advice and support from Lallana.
Fernandes continued: “I think he’s the same. He was a coach for us when he was a player, too. He’s a good guy and an amazing player. Everything was top in him. When he says something, we need to listen because he played in the Premier League for many years. He helped me a lot through many conversations, and I try to listen to what he says because he is a big football player. Me, Dibling, all the young guys need to listen to guys like Ads, Rambo (Aaron Ramsdale) and Janny (Jan Bednarek). They are experienced in the Premier League.”
Fernandes’ comments highlight the importance of mentorship and experience in the development of young players. Lallana, who has had a distinguished career in the Premier League, has evidently taken on a leadership role within the Southampton squad, offering guidance to emerging talents like Fernandes. This mentorship has been crucial for Fernandes, especially during a season where Southampton faced the challenges of relegation.
The young midfielder’s reliance on seasoned players underscores the value of experienced teammates in fostering growth and confidence among younger squad members. As Fernandes continues to develop his career in the Premier League, the lessons learned from Lallana and other senior players will undoubtedly play a significant role in his future success.
**Tags:** #Southampton, #PlayerInsight, #Mentor, #PremierLeague, #PlayerDevelopment, #RelegationBattle
