Long facing heartache

SOUTHAMPTON manager Claude Puel said there will be no room for sentiment when he names his line-up for today’s final. That is likely to spell heartache for League Cup semi-final hero Shane Long. Puel said: ‘All the players have participated in this journey but now the most important thing is to use our experience to win.’

The Frenchman says Long will still have a key role to play, using his singing skills in the dressing room. He said: ‘I know Shane Long is a very good singer and he can do this before the game.’ It’s now seems likely that Dusan Tadic, who scored the winning goal at Old Trafford in 2015 is likely to partner Manolo Gabbiadini in attack. Tadic ended Southampton’s 27year wait for a win at United by scoring the only goal two years ago. Since Gabbiadini’s arrival, though, he switched from the wing to his favoured No 10 spot and enjoys setting up the £14million Italian as much as scoring.

‘I am happy to give assists. It’s my way of thinking and I expect that from my teammate for me.’