Southampton’s season is finally getting back on track after a rough start.
Four consecutive defeats cast doubt on the club’s new manager, Russel Martin. Not only did they not win any of those games, but they also gave up 12 goals.
It was a difficult moment for them, and their chances of promotion were being dragged through the mud. However, seven points from a potential nine have placed them roughly back on track.
One of the reasons that so many people were excited about the prospect of this Saints team was their squad. They’d managed to retain many of their good players who were with them in the Premier League, as well as adding proven Championship quality and young talent to the side.
They’re building a team that can grow together through the future, but they should have some short-term worries when it comes to three players at their contracts are all set to expire at the end of the season. If two of these three players leave for free, it will be a real blow to Southampton, but that’s currently what they’re set to do.
1.Che Adams
The striker got off to a hot start this season, scoring in the first three matches of the campaign, and providing two assists since then.
Now that he’s into the final year of his current deal with the Saints, and given the record that he has at the top level of English football, sides in the Premier League were wanting to snap him up in the summer. It was reported that Everton, AFC Bournemouth, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Crystal Palace were all interested in bringing in the Scottish international.
Ultimately, no deal was made, but the Saints still might look to cash in on him, while they can, in January.
2.Stuart Armstrong
Another player who represents Scotland – Armstrong is playing in his sixth season for the Saints.
During the club’s time in the top tier of English football, you would get to see, every now and again, the glimpses of pure magic that this man possesses in his feet. Even at 31-years-old, that same wizardry is showing itself in the Championship, scoring in the club’s last two games heading into the October international break.
Armstrong brings versatility to the team, as he can play on the wings as well as in a more center position. He’s one of those players that can always make something out of nothing, and you don’t want to lose them, especially for free.
3.Joe Lumley
The goalkeeper only arrived from Middlesbrough at the start of the season, and he is yet to play a game for the Hampshire-based side.
Having played most of the season for Reading, in the 2022/23 campaign, to go to a club as the obvious back-up to Gavin Bazunu was a move that can certainly be questioned.
When given the opportunity, he has proven to be a dependable Championship goalie. But it appears that opportunity will not arrive at Southampton.
He’s undoubtedly the best second keeper in the league, but you don’t think Saints fans will be too concerned about this probable loss.
