Ralph Hasenhüttl has praised the qualities of Jan Bednarek after seeing the centre-back flourish under his leadership at the club.
The Southampton manager has reintroduced the Poland international to the team since taking over, and has been repaid with a series of eye-catching performances from the 22-year-old.
Prior to Hasenhüttl's arrival, Bednarek had started only one Premier League match all season – with that ending after 45 minutes, in the home meeting with Chelsea – but he has been an ever-present under the new Saints boss.
Like a number of other players, Bednarek has been reinvigorated under Hasenhüttl, who explained that, from the off, he noticed the qualities the defender possesses.
"I think he's not the only guy who was struggling to find time in the game or a place in the starting XI," said Hasenhüttl, ahead of Wednesday night's Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace.
"I think he showed from the first day on that he can be this type of centre-back who helps you to have a clean sheet or to do everything to stop the opponent from scoring.
ralph hasenhüttl
i think he makes a very big step forward in his development.
on jan bednarek
"He is very aggressive in the one-to-one duels at the back, and also with the ball he is calm and has a good view for the surrounding players.
"He is also loud, giving good tactical advice for the other players, and I think he is a very good package as a centre-back.
"I think he makes a very big step forward in his development and it is typical for the development of the team."
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