What to expect from potential #SaintsFC signing Mohammed Salisu?

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In one word, DEFENDIG. Sounds pretty obvious right? A centre-back comes in to defend.

But with the modern demands of possession football most teams focus on signing defenders that have ability with the ball (Hoedt & Vestergaard prime examples for #SaintsFC)

Hoedt arrived with a reputation of picking out a perfect diagonal pass to the winger & Vestergaard's ability to play a lethal line penetrating pass into a midfield area is clear to see but both lack common defensive ability. #SaintsFC

Salisu is none of that, his main focus is to sniff out and get rid of any potential threat in and around his box and lay off a simple pass. So don't expect him to carry the ball out of defence or any long diagonal passes. (An average of 5 Clearances per game) #SaintsFC

He's 190cm tall (6ft2) so he's tall but not Vestergaard tall yet he's bulky so he uses his body well to nudge the opponent slightly before attempting an aerial duel. (An average of 2.5 Aerial duels won per game) #SaintsFC

Valladolid play with a deep defensive line where Salisu tends to step forwards to sniff out potential danger before it becomes a serious attack, whereas #SaintsFC tend to use a high defensive line.

With a high defensive line you need a defender capable of stopping any break on goal, so you need a defender capable tracking back and cutting out any counter attack. Salisu excels at 1v1 defending. (He's only been dribbled past 12 times in 30 Appearances this season) #SaintsFC

So thats my quick take on Salisu for those who aren't quite sure about him.

He's young so expect mistakes, especially with the demands of Hasenhuttl's system. But give him time and he can easily be a top Premier League CB.

What do we think of him #SaintsFC fans?

All GIFs are taken from Total Footballs video from Youtube and stats are from Whoscored.