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Claude Puel content with Southampton's attacking options

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Southampton manager Claude Puel gives his reaction to Sky Sports after a debut goal from Nathan Redmond

Claude Puel says he is happy with Southampton's attacking options following their 1-1 draw with Watford on Saturday.

Summer signing Nathan Redmond secured a point for the new Saints boss at St Mary's in their opening game of the Premier League season, volleying home to cancel out Etienne Capoue's first-half strike.

Following the departures of Graziano Pelle and Sadio Mane - the club's two top goalscorers last season - Redmond started up front alongside Shane Long.

Nathan Redmond celebrates
Image: Nathan Redmond scored on his Southampton debut against Watford

But when asked if he thinks Southampton will strengthen in attack before the close of the transfer window, Puel said: "No, we have solutions with Jay Rodriguez and Charlie Austin on the bench.

"I said he [Redmond] can play as a striker and I think he has all the qualities for the position.

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"You could see today his movement, dribbling and quality in combinations, he has a good acquaintance with his partners and this is important for the future.

"It gives many solutions for the team and perhaps in the second half he could have scored another goal because he had many situations."

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Etienne Capoue of Watford celebrates scoring his sides first goal with his team mates during the Premier League match bet
Image: Etienne Capoue scored his first league goal for Watford

Capoue struck after just nine minutes to leave Southampton playing catch-up, and Puel admitted he was disappointed with his side's first 45 minutes of the season.

"It is important for us to play our football and I'm a little angry for our first half because you can see the qualities of my players," he added.

"It's a pity to lose two points because I think we saw in the second half a good team with good players, good technique and many solutions. It's just a pity we didn't win this game.

Walter Mazzarri and Claude Puel watch on
Image: Walter Mazzarri and Claude Puel watch on

"I think we didn't play our football in the first half, we perhaps played with bad emotion or a little bit afraid. It's important for us to play with good technique on the ground.

"This is very important for the future and to take confidence and the lessons from today. You don't play in the first half with the spirit and emotion, and it's important to take this confidence because we have a good team."

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