Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu believes he has all the capabilities to become a household name in the Premier League despite being relegated with his club side Southampton this year.
Bazunu became the Saints' number one for a considerable amount of the season, but after the club's poor displays in the league and demotion by then-manager Ruben Selles, things looked bleak for the former Shamrock Rovers keeper.
The 21-year-old is highly regarded by coaches in club football, but there has been criticism that has come as a result of his displays at St. Mary's.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher back in May called the Dubliner out for his role in Southampton's eventual drop to England's second tier, the Championship.
"A big problem for them has been the goalkeeper they bought in from Manchester City, a young goalkeeper, still finding his way in the game," Carragher stated before a game on Monday Night Football in May.
Despite the struggles and bedding-in process in the Premier League, the Ireland shot-stopper is adamant that he belongs at the highest level in England.
Southampton's Irish goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)“Probably the fact that I am good enough to play in the Premier League consistently," said Bazunu at the launch of the Shamrock Rovers Boot Room initiative this week. "That was probably the biggest thing. Playing against teams like Man City three times, Arsenal twice. Playing against those teams and having some really good performances, just proved to me ‘this is my level’.”
Bazunu will now return to training under the guidance of a new manager when pre-season resumes. Southampton have opted to bring Russell Martin from Swansea City.
The Ireland star takes responsibility for his part in the club's drop from the Premier League. Despite the noise, the former League of Ireland keeper will give everything for new boss Martin when the season gets backs underway.
“I think I proved that this season, playing under three different managers, I played in the majority of games under every one of the managers. It just proves, no matter who comes in I will respect what they have to say and I will be able to do what they want on the pitch.
“It was a disappointing season for the team, we ended up getting relegated, that is a big burden and responsibility on myself and my teammates. We’ve got to take responsibility for that,” he added.
Southampton kick off their season away to Sheffield Wednesday on August 4
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