Town goal threat is boosted by Mounie

HUDDERSFIELD Town boss David Wagner is pleased to have Steve Mounie back at his disposal after a straight red card ruled the striker out for three matches this month.

The Benin international was harshly dismissed against Brighton and Hove Albion on January 1, with Mounie having to sit out the Premier League clashes with Bournemouth, Arsenal and Newcastle United as a result of his automatic suspension.

But the 24-year-old is available for selection tomorrow as Town face a crucial clash against fellow top-flight strugglers Southampton, who earned an impressive win over the Gunners last weekend.

On the forward returning from his ban, Wagner said: “It was a big blow for us [when he was out] because we thought it was hard, but our appeal was rejected.

“He has been out for three games, so I hope and I believe he is fresh in his legs and mentally to help us in this game.”

Michael Oliver sent Mounie from the field after a late challenge on Yves Bissouma at the John Smith’s Stadium, with the Town boss disagreeing with the decision after the match.

But Wagner is keen to move on from the incident and is hopeful the forward’s stint on the sidelines will not affect his good form.

He added: “I think every referee does his job as good as he can, but sometimes you disagree, this is the nature of the job.

“It is something which is now in the past. We shouldn’t look back, we should look forward, and hopefully Steve Mounie can continue the performances he has done before.