Former Southampton striker Iain Dowie says in-form Saints forward Cyle Larin reminds him of Jean-Philippe Mateta, calling him “a handful” and “physically intimidating”.
France striker Mateta has played a key role for another of Dowie’s former clubs, Premier League side Crystal Palace.
Larin has enjoyed an excellent start to the Championship season. The Canada international scored four league goals in August.
His performances earned him the Championship Player of the Month award. Dowie also believes Larin shows why Southampton allowed Ross Stewart to leave this summer.
A handful
Dowie praised Larin’s movement and finishing during an interview with BOYLE Sports, who offer football odds.
“He’s the man on the spot. He’s always in the right place, right time for tap-ins,” Dowie said.
“He’s a handful, physically intimidating, and he’s started the season well. He’s exactly the man you want up front.
“Cyle Larin is a lad who has scored goals everywhere he has been. He started in Canada before moving to Orlando, Besiktas, and Club Brugge.
“He’s a proven goalscorer. Last season, he had eight league goals in 16 appearances. He also has 32 goals for Canada.
“I think Southampton let Ross Stewart go because they have that kind of player in Larin. The truth is, he just gets goals wherever he goes.”
Mistake to let Stewart leave
Dowie remains unconvinced by Southampton’s decision to move on from Stewart.
The striker now plays for Swansea. However, an injury has disrupted his start to the new campaign.
“Considering how Ross Stewart finished last season, I think it might have been a mistake from Southampton to let him leave,” Dowie said.
“He’s yet to start due to injury, but he had such a great end to last season.
“I just think if Ross Stewart is fit, he’ll get goals. Wherever he’s been, he’s scored.
“Losing him on a free didn’t seem like a very sensible thing to do, but that’s where they are.”
