Ronald Koeman declared himself satisfied with three points against Swansea, but wasn’t so happy with his team’s performance.
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Saints made in two wins and nine goals scored in just four days with a 3-1 victory over the Swans backing up their 6-0 demolition of MK Dons in the Capital One Cup.
While Koeman was understandably happy to see his side collect their second league win of the campaign, he was also frustrated with elements of the performance.
When asked whether he was satisfied with the afternoon, he said: “About the three points yes, about the result of course, but maybe it was the best game of the season clinical wise.
“We didn’t create a lot of chances but we scored three times.
“But the performance what we can bring, what we expect, was not very good because we had a lot of mistakes in our ball possession, but the win is important.
“It was not the best performance of the season.”
Koeman did not single out any players for criticism, but rather insisted he expected more of his side, particularly after they got a cushion in the game.
“Yes but ok we were prepared of the different system of Swansea and then you need more communication in the team,” he said.
“I think they had some good chances close to the box, free shots, and we had to defend that much better than we did.
“Very clinical, great corner kick the first goal, fast second one after half time, the third 3-0.
“Then I expect more than only defending the result and too much back, too less pressing up in front and then always you get problem.
“They had some chances, they get a penalty, but anyway maybe I am too much critical.”
As well as the win there was another massive bright spot with Ryan Bertrand making his first start of the season after injury.
“Very good,” reflected Koeman.
“In my opinion he was the best player on the pitch, and that’s all the credit.
“No pre-season for three months out and playing like he wasn’t away of the team and that was very good.”
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