SAINTS goalkeeper Willy Caballero insists number one Gavin Bazunu is “100 per cent into it” and says stoppers cannot show their full potential inside one season.
The 41 year old has been acting as a mentor to the young Republic of Ireland international during his first Premier League campaign.
Bazunu, 21, ranks at the bottom for most key metrics across goalkeepers in the division but has the security of a contract until 2027 at St Mary’s.
The youngster had previously only played as high as League One domestically, following loan spells while on the books at Manchester City.
Caballero, in an interview with The Athletic, has moved to defend his fellow goalkeeper – who chose to have his space in the dressing room right next to the veteran.
“Gavin is a really polite person and loves to ask questions about scenarios in games and goals he’s conceded,” Caballero said.
“He’s 100 per cent into it. We always have conversations about his performance. He loves to receive criticism and feedback.
“It’s his first season in the Premier League. I believe goalkeepers can’t show their potential in their first season — it goes in the same direction as the team’s performance.”
He added: “Maybe that’s why we are not in the right balance. For instance, to help with the pressure (on Bazunu), we cannot give easy free kicks away. So the players on the pitch can help each other when they are going through scrutiny.”
Bazunu has played in every Premier League game this season, across three different managers, with third-choice Caballero only featuring in cup competitions.
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