Southampton boss says strange substitution of Long was a ‘misunderstanding’

SOUTHAMPTON MANAGER CLAUDE Puel has explained his early substitution of Ireland striker Shane Long in yesterday’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.

Long speaking to Puel after the substitution.

The Saints boss brought Long on for James Ward-Prowse on the hour-mark, but then withdrew him 22 minutes later.

Long looked visibly upset with the decision and spoke to Puel and assistant manager Eric Black after being replaced by Jay Rodriguez.

He then walked straight down the tunnel.

But Puel says the forward was feeling his hamstring and the change was made as a precaution.

“It was a precaution to take off Shane but I hope it’s nothing and it will be good for Shane tomorrow or the next day.”

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