Southampton starlet Dan N’Lundulu surely knocking on Ralph Hasenhuttl’s door

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Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl will surely be tempted to give Dan N’Lundulu a first-team opportunity soon. At the very least, he can take a look at the young forward in training sessions with the senior squad.

N’Lundulu scored one and provided an assist for the other in Southampton U21’s clash with Forest Green Rovers last night. This showed that the 20-year-old could mix with other players in a senior environment.

Now, Hasenhuttl should consider N’Lundulu for a first-team promotion. Here are three reasons why he is knocking on the door.

Sensational U23 form

N’Lundulu’s form for the U23 team cannot be ignored. He is thriving with added responsibility in the Premier League 2 and proving his point. His goal last night took his tally to four goals in four games this season.

There is a major step-up from U23 football to the Premier League and N’Lundulu will be under no illusions about the work that lies ahead. But he is proving a point with the football he is playing and he could be given a chance.

Injury cover

N’Lundulu sat on the bench last weekend as the Saints drew 1-1 with Manchester United. He was taking the place of Michael Obafemi, who suffered an injury in last week’s cup win over Fulham.

Che Adams and Danny Ings started for Southampton with Shane Long as a back-up. Now that Charlie Austin has departed, it looks like N’Lundulu is the fourth-choice striker. This could open the door for first-team opportunities.

Ward-Prowse and Valery examples

Southampton need to look at some of their success stories of recent years. Yan Valery and James Ward-Prowse are two shining examples of players graduating from the academy and thriving with first-team football.

N’Lundulu could be the next Saints academy graduate off the conveyer belt on the south coast. Hasenhuttl could give him the chance to float or sink with a first-team opportunity soon.