Ralph Hasenhuttl gives backing to Ireland U21 international Will Smallbone after penalty miss

The academy graduate was introduced in the 77th minute at Stamford Bridge for his first senior outing in nine months having suffered ACL damage back in January

Will Smallbone fires over the crossbar for Southampton in their Carabao Cup shoot-out loss at Chelsea. Picture: Nick Potts

Ralph Hasenhuttl told Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone to keep his “head up” after his penalty miss proved crucial in the Carabao Cup defeat to Chelsea.

The academy graduate was introduced in the 77th minute at Stamford Bridge for his first senior outing in nine months having suffered anterior cruciate ligament damage back in January.