Bayern Munich keeper Daniel Peretz reflects on dream start at Southampton: “I knew my hard work would pay off.”

Bayern Munich keeper Daniel Peretz is off to a fantastic start with his new EFL Championship club Southampton. Just days after his arrival on the English south coast, the Israeli international was thrust directly into the fray as Southampton’s starting keeper in a FA Cup fixture against Doncaster Rovers. 

Peretz ended up conceding two goals, but helped his team out immensely with crucial saves near the end of the match. Thanks in large part to Peretz, the Saints were able to advance to the next round. Peretz’s strong debut isn’t all the 25-year-old has going for him at his new loan locale. 

Southampton have opted to tap Peretz as their de-facto starter, shipping out previous No. 1 Gavin Bazunu on loan to rivals Stoke City. For the duration of the season, it looks to be the case the Peretz will receive plenty of practice between the sticks.

Peretz comments on receiving his desired playing time

“It was emotional,” Peretz noted in a statement published on Southampton’s website. “I think what helped me out in the past few months [of sitting on the bench at Hamburg] was just giving it my all every day. I knew it would pay off at some point. Today, it paid off.

“We have a top group of guys,” Peretz continued. “It wasn’t easy to settle in so quickly and have my first game after only two days, but there’s nothing better than just jumping in the deep end.”

“I think he played an excellent game today,” Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert added. “It’s definitely not easy to come in after just a few training sessions.“

GGFN | Peter Weis