Danny Ings had a major influence on Southampton’s decision to hand shot shy Shane Long a new contract – because he loves playing alongside the Irishman.
There had been doubts that Long, 33, who has scored only two goals all season and netted only five last year, would be given a new deal.
But a crucial factor in Southampton’s decision is that Premier League hot shot Ings, who has scored 14 goals this season – is adamant that Long is his best strike partner.
Ings, who has become a target for Manchester United thanks to his goalscoring exploits at St Mary’s, as well as being touted for a call up to England’s Euro 2020 squad, reckons that Long’s unselfish running and hard work has been crucial to his goalscoring.
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“He’s a fantastic professional and always positive; really nasty to play against because he’s always hunting for every ball and this is something that helps our game, absolutely.”
Hasenhuttl is also in talks for an extension to his own £6 million a year deal, which runs out in 2021.
The Austrian has seen his team recover from a disastrous start to the season, which saw them lose 9-0 at home to Leicester in October, to rise to 13th in the table.
The Saints boss is expected to be handed an extra year on his current deal.
Meanwhile, Maya Yoshida’s exit has increased Kevin Danso’s chances of playing in his favoured position, according to Hasenhuttl.
Hasenhuttl said: “He’s a young player and I know he always had to play a position so far that is not his best as a right or left-back.
“He played one time [as a centre-back] in the Carabao Cup against Fulham. That’s where he is more used to playing.
“Now, maybe in the future, he will have more chances as a centre-back where he is more comfortable.”