When Ivan Juric promised Southampton fans “heavy metal football” at St Mary’s after replacing Russell Martin in December, most supporters hoped their team would see a lift in style and results. And while glimpses of attacking threat were on display against Bournemouth, it was ultimately the visitors who, with a 3-1 win, had their fans chanting about Champions League away days in Spain and Italy next season.
“Our reality will be at the end of the season,” said the Bournemouth manager, Andoni Iraola, when asked if he was allowed to get as excited as his supporters. “Fortunately for us, it is not the end. If we continue performing well, we may have a chance [to play in the Champions League]. We, as staff and players, cannot start thinking about this. This is not the moment for us to celebrate. Not yet.”
