Shane Long scored his fourth goal of the season on Tuesday night as Southampton drew 1-1 with Watford. The goal was also the fastest in Premier League history, clocked at 7.69 seconds.
"I think he has a little bit the image that he doesn’t score so much but in the last four games three goals," Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl told the Southern Daily Echo after the game.
"I’m very happy with him and it’s a joy to watch him play at the moment because he’s always working for the team and keeps the ball in front."
The Austrian believes that the style of football which Southampton are playing under him suits the Ireland international.
I think that the game we play in the moment and the style of football with ball wins and immediate transition forward and deep runs is something he likes to play because he is very quick.
He is also an intelligent player and knows exactly the position you must be if you win the ball to be dangerous for opponents.
I think he is not only this but our target man at the moment because he knows very well how to use his body to keep the ball and be our target man.
The last games he played very well and now he deserves to play from the beginning.
Ingsy played against Newcastle but two games in three days is too much for his muscles and that was the reason I wanted to bring in Shane from the beginning and I think he will not forget this game.
