Ralph Hasenhuttl
BOSS Ralph Hasenhuttl insisted new recruit Lyanco “still has to learn” more about playing at Saints after he made his first appearance for the club at Sheffield United. The Brazilian centre-half, signed for a reported £6.7million from Torino in the summer, endured a difficult debut in the 2-2 Carabao Cup contest at Bramall Lane. The 24-year-old was booked for tussling with Oli McBurnie in the first half in south Yorkshire, before giving away the ball prior to the Blades’ second goal. He was eventually replaced by Jan Bednarek after 74 minutes. Asked about the defender’s debut,
Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “We spoke before the game that this was a very good start for him, a very good game for him to be honest. We knew it would be tough and physical and emotional and this I think is a good start for him to get a feeling about English football. This is what he has to learn. I mean he is a fantastic character, a really good guy. He is learning English now. I think his English is not the best so far but we have Ori (Romeu) who helps us with the translation. He learns and he is understanding more and more but it will take time before he understands everything that we want to do. He showed sometimes some qualities but still has to learn what we want to do, especially his game with the ball can be a little more calmer but yes, this is the thing we have.”
Saints went on to triumph 4-2 on penalties against the Blades to book their place in the next round of the competition.
