Finn Azaz shines for Southampton as Tadic’s template looms large | OneFootball

Finn Azaz was arguably Southampton’s standout attacker last season, switching between number ten and wide roles to post 10 goals and seven assists.

According to Sainstmarching.com, the Irish playmaker’s versatility and end product underpinned their surge up the Championship table in his debut campaign.

Saints supporters have seen this profile before in Dusan Tadic, who illuminated the Premier League with similar craft and flexibility.

Across 134 top-flight appearances for Southampton, Tadic delivered 20 goals and 29 assists, peaking in 2015/16 with seven goals and 14 assists from 34 games.

Southampton finished sixth that season, with Tadic a constant threat to score or supply.

Azaz has shown the same knack for big moments, notably curling a fine opener against Manchester City in the FA Cup during a largely cagey tie.

He will hope to drive promotion and build a top-flight career to match Tadic’s longevity.

Even in his late thirties, Tadic stayed productive, registering 24 goal contributions for Al-Wadha FC last season after 25 in Super Lig action with Fenerbahce the year before.

The veteran is set to be on the books of NEC Nijmegen this coming campaign and is a three-time Eredivisie champion, with 259 goals and assists at Ajax.

Source: Sainstmarching.com