Sourced from Daily Echo article
Sims can be “great news” for Saints
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Mauricio Pellegrino described the impact of fit again Josh Sims as “good news” for Saints.
The 20-year-old academy product has had a frustrating season, having been forced out of the first team picture for seven months through injury.
However, he is back and starting to make an impact again.
He underlined his potential once more as he was summoned from the bench at Burnley with Saints trailing 1-0 and quickly produced a moment of magic to almost score, only being denied by a superb save from Nick Pope who turned onto the post.
Sims then had a significant hand in the Saints equaliser, scored by another late sub, Manolo Gabbiadini.
“The important thing is that we need players that has to be really well prepared in all aspects,” said Pellegrino.
“Josh is a young player who is getting better, who is home grown.
“I think little by little the connection between him and his teammates is better and I think it is good news for us.”
Sims made a great impression on the first team last season under Claude Puel, making 13 appearances in all competitions, including a debut assist for Charlie Austin’s winner 41 seconds in to the 1-0 victory over Everton at St Mary’s.
Sims also set-up Shane Long for the winning goal at Anfield in the League Cup final second-leg.
He was also handed an England Under-20s call up and helped the Young Lions to Four Nations Victory in March.
However, after an excellent spell, the exciting attacking’s development was stopped in its tracks following an injury.
It forced him out of England’s triumphant Under-20 World Cup team and meant he ended a breakthrough campaign on the sidelines.
Sims is now hoping he can play a significant role before the end of the season.
Another player who could have a big impact is Manolo Gabbiadini.
He has become more of a bit part player since the arrival of Guido Carrillo, but his equaliser at Turf Moore, a first goal since October, again showed how deadly he can be as Pellegrino’s substitutions made the difference.
“I think so, I think the substitutions make a big impact on the team,” reflected the Saints manager.
“Josh because he is an intelligent guy, running behind and being always close to the strikers and was really close to score.
“Sofiane allow us to have three or four free kicks in the frontal area and Manolo scored the goal.
“It’s important when the team has got people from the bench ready mentally because in this type of game when it’s really really tough the substitution can be important.”
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