Ryan Manning is confident that Southampton will be at the top end of the Championship under manager Will Still, despite a slow start to the season. He also looks forward to bringing his good form to the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup Qualifier.
Ryan Manning, the Republic of Ireland international, has expressed his confidence in Southampton's ability to compete at the top end of the Championship this season. Despite a somewhat sluggish start, with only four points garnered from their initial matches, Manning believes that the arrival of Will Still as manager will propel the Saints to success.
Southampton's recent relegation from the Premier League marked a difficult chapter for the club, culminating in the departure of manager Ivan Juric towards the end of the campaign. The appointment of Will Still in May, following his departure from Lens in Ligue 1, has been met with enthusiasm by Manning and the rest of the squad.
"He's spent a lot of time in European football but has been brilliant since he's come in," Manning said, highlighting Still's impact on the team. "The way he gets his messages across and the staff who have come in have been really good for us. The club was in a difficult place after a tough year in the Premier League."
Still's clear and concise communication has resonated with the players, providing them with a sense of direction and purpose. "He's been brilliant with such a clear message so everyone knows on match day what we're trying to do," Manning explained.
While acknowledging the tough start to the season, Manning remains optimistic about the team's prospects. "We've had a tough start with some results, but over the course of the season we'll be there or thereabouts at the top end because you can see already he's a top manager."
Image source, Getty ImagesManning hopes to bring his club form into the Republic of Ireland's opening World Cup qualifier against Hungary on Saturday
Turning his attention to international duties, Manning is eager to replicate his club form for the Republic of Ireland in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Hungary. The match, scheduled to take place in Dublin, holds significant importance for the national team.
"I had a good start to the season, a couple of free-kicks and some good performances," Manning said, reflecting on his recent performances. His confidence is high, buoyed by his recent free-kick goals against Wrexham and Watford. "I've been fortunate to score a couple over the past few weeks. Confidence is pretty high at the minute, so hopefully we get something within shooting range on Saturday."
Manning vividly recalls the Republic of Ireland's past appearances at major tournaments, particularly the European Championships in 2012 and 2016. He firmly believes that it is time for the team to "step up" and secure their place in a major tournament once again.
"We've had a tough few years with qualification campaigns, but the squad now had four or five club captains," Manning noted, emphasizing the experience and leadership within the team. "You've people with a lot of caps, experienced Premier League players, Championship players, so the squad's in as good a place as it has been in a few years. Now is the time we need to step up as a group and put in the performances to get to a tournament."
The Republic of Ireland faces a crucial test against Hungary, and Manning's optimism and determination reflect the collective desire within the squad to achieve success on the international stage.