There’s nothing more we love to see as football fans than young players doing well, especially when they’re straight out of the academy.
Youngsters that are completely and utterly fearless and who please the crowd with their tenacity.
It’s a pleasure to watch and it’s safe to say there is one side in the Premier League that turn out these sorts of players more than most, and that’s the Saints.
Southampton have had a cracking few years, firmly cementing their place as a respected Premier League outfit and reaching the Europa League for the first time in their history last season.
But one thing remains constant – the ability for youth coaches to really get the best out of some of the best young players in the country.
We’ve seen the likes of Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Shaw be given the chance to shine on the big stage but who is next?
Transfer Tavern writer Hayden Atkins takes us through the THREE hidden gems from the Saints academy that are destined for the top…
Jason McCarthy
20-year-old centre-back Jason McCarthy is as Southampton as they come.
He was born there, played twelve years in their academy and is now on the first-team books, albeit serving a loan-spell to continue his development.
After making his debut in a 3-1 win over Crystal Palace back in December 2014, he’s had a successful loan move to Wycombe Wanderers last season where he was a real mainstay in Gareth Ainsworth’s side.
He’s now with League One outfit Walsall on a loan deal which runs until January, where he’ll hope to further show his credentials to the Saints bosses. Keep an eye on this young man.
Sam McQueen
Much like McCarthy, Sam McQueen is a full product of the Saints academy having played there from boy to pro and at 21, we think he’s one to look out for as the season progresses.
He’s a winger that can also play as an attacking midfielder and after solid reports playing for the development squad, he could come into the first-team fold this campaign.
He might have to wait for injuries or suspensions to take their toll but one way or another, expect this pacy winger to play some part this season.
Josh Sims
Another winger, 19-year-old Josh Sims is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Saints, but he’s expected to go onto big things as his development continues.
Has featured for the England U18 side and has drawn comparisons to Adam Lallana for his trickery and skill.
He’s one that hasn’t been sent on-loan this season which may suggest Claude Puel has first-team thoughts in mind, but out of everyone in this list, we’re tipping Josh Sims to be a really good player in the future.
Mark our words.
