Finn Azaz vs Kuryu Matsuki: Southampton’s three-goal attackers, but Azaz is judged the bigger threat

Southampton have two attacking players with three goals this season in Finn Azaz and Kuryu Matsuki, but the pre-match view ahead of Saturday’s trip to QPR is that Azaz remains the bigger threat.

That comparison comes from a blend of FotMob numbers and preview material ahead of the match, and it helps explain why Southampton’s attack is being framed around more than one outlet. Both players have been productive, but Azaz’s overall profile has stood out a little more.

Why Azaz edges the comparison

Azaz’s numbers are the strongest sign of that. In late September, FotMob’s profile for him showed three goals and four assists from eight games, along with 16 chances created, three big chances and a 7.60 average rating. He also produced one goal and two assists in the 12 September win against Bristol City, reinforcing his importance in Southampton’s attacking play.

Matsuki, meanwhile, has also made a useful contribution from the right wing. His three goals have come in different matches, including against West Ham, Bristol City and Norwich. The broader statistical picture is less eye-catching than Azaz’s, but it still supports the idea that Southampton have another player who can influence games.

What the numbers say about Matsuki

FotMob’s season figures for Matsuki show 12 appearances, eight starts, 793 minutes, two assists, 1.67 expected goals, 17 shots and a 7.06 average rating. Those are solid numbers for a winger who has been trusted to keep his place, and Saints Marching’s preview before the QPR match said both Azaz and Matsuki were unlikely to lose their spots.

That fits the wider picture around Southampton’s attack. Matsuki is not being cast as the primary headline act, but he has done enough to remain part of the plan, and Eckert’s view appears to be that he is the right winger he trusts.

So while both players have scored three goals, Azaz looks like the more dangerous option overall. Matsuki’s place in the side appears secure, but the balance of the evidence suggests Southampton’s main attacking threat remains Finn Azaz.