When considering your pre-season predictions, take caution not to discount Southampton from doing anything spectacular this season. They are on their way back up to their rightful place in English football’s elite, and every Saints fan knows it. Here are 3 reasons why Southampton FC have every chance of entering the play-off lottery this season.
The facilities they own
For success to be ingrained into a club, the facilities (be it stadium, training grounds, medical rooms or the pitch condition) must be of a high standard. St. Mary’s stadium is a 32,689 all seater stadium of the highest quality. It is quietly picturesque – yet on match day it becomes a hostile cauldron of noise even the most talented away team struggle to handle.
On the 3rd of March 2010, the Saints battered promotion contenders Huddersfield 5-0, with manager Lee Clark citing the intimidation the players felt as a key reason for their collapse. The pitch betters most Premier League sides’ attempts and provides a wonderfully slick passing surface allowing Southampton’s talented midfield to systematically rip apart their opposition. Finally, Southampton have built top training facilities which allow the senior professionals and youngsters alike to improve their game to its full potential.
Southampton belong in the Premier League
It would be fair to say Southampton haven’t had too much to smile about over the past 5 years or so. It is a measure of the high standards of the fans, staff and players alike that, even when dogged by a 10 point deduction in League One, they were still bitterly disappointed when they didn’t quite clinch the play-offs.
Saints still carry a Premier League pedigree – and players who play in England know it. Jose Fonte signed for L1 Saints from Championship side Crystal Palace, claiming that he would be playing Premier League football sooner there – even though he dropped down a division. In addition to attracting signings who are perhaps ‘above their weight’, they have managed to retain key players and keep them happy – providing much needed stability when attempting to rise up the ranks quickly (ie. Morgan Schneiderlin, Adam Lallana and Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain (as it stands!)).
Everything about Southampton screams Premier League. Everyone involved with the club is determined to re-associate the two again.
Talented young squad with a hunger to win – guided by a phenomenal manager
Has anyone checked Southampton’s squad recently? It’s busting with talent. The summer has been relatively quiet in terms of signings for Saints fans, but the acquisition of both Jack Cork and Steve de Ridder gets the blood pumping. Cork, signed from Chelsea for a measly fee, has invaluable Premier League experience gained from a loan spell at Burnley.
Steve de Ridder arrives fresh from a full seasons play in Holland’s top division and appears to ooze quality. Add to this the fan’s favourite Adam Lallana, solid and dependable stalwart Kelvin Davis and 54-goal Rickie Lambert and you’ve got yourself a recipe for success. Mixing it all together is mastermind Nigel Adkins, who has proven he is a good tactician and a top class man manager. Southampton have huge strength in depth, yet Adkins will keep every player happy.
I think Jose Fonte was right. You’d be silly not to consider Southampton playing Premier League football in the not too distant future. If they’re not up there at the end of the season – I’ll eat my hat!
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