Not long after Jay Rodriguez trotted onto the field for his Southampton debut in 2012, he quickly became one of England’s brightest young prospects. He went on to make close to 80 first team appearances and earned his first England cap over the next two years when, at the tail end of 2013-14 season, his career was totally derailed by a horrific knee injury. As his teammates were becoming staples in the England team and sealing moves to bigger clubs, Rodriguez missed the entire next season, and graced the field just 16 times last year.
AP
2016-17 has been a different — and far happier — story. With his injury behind him, he’s played well enough to secure himself a role in the Southampton team. Fast forward to Sunday, where Rodriguez repaid the club, its fans and his manager’s faith with two fantastic goals en-route to a 3-1 win over Bournemouth.
The first was a clinical finish to seal a delightful piece of play.
The second, a breathtaking rocket of a volley to put the result of the match beyond doubt.
Welcome back, Jay Rodriquez. It’s been a long road, but here’s hoping this is just a glimpse of what is still yet to come.
