Pain from that 9-0... let’s use it
SOUTHAMPTON legend Franny Benali wants Ralph Hasenhuttl and his men to use the 9-0 thumping Leicester inflicted on them 18 months ago as fuel for today’s FA Cup semi-final.
Benali, who was part of the Saints squad that last played an FA Cup semi, in 2003, said: “It upsets a lot — if not most — Saints supporters whenever the 9-0 gets mentioned, but it happened.
“And, to be honest, I don’t mind it being brought up because I know that if I was in that dressing room I’d still feel it reinforces a purpose and a reason to do something positive in a game like this – just to put that to bed and have something more positive to talk about.
“Because that was just a humiliation.
“So the players who figured that night and are still part of the squad need to use it as a little bit of fuel for this game.
“I maybe wouldn’t go as far as saying ‘revenge’ but motivation, for sure.
“There’s the obvious prize of getting to an FA Cup Final but there’s the added benefit for a few players to just put something to one side for a long time.”
Danny Ings was in the Southampton team on that 9-0 night at St Mary’s and, given the speculation surrounding his future, he will be in the spotlight again today.
Benali added: “I know Ings is ambitious, but a new deal at Southampton would be on improved terms. And if he were to stay for the rest of his career and continue doing good things, he will never be forgotten by Southampton supporters.
“He’d never have to buy a pint in the city again.
And definitely not if he wins them the FA Cup.” ■■Watch Leicester City v Southampton in the Emirates FA Cup semi-final exclusively live on BT Sport 1 from 6pm. Sign up contract free with a BT Sport Monthly Pass for just £25 per month. For more info visit bt.com/sport