Yesterday, Southampton confirmed the appointment of Matt Crocker as the club’s director of football operations as they look to get their house in order behind the scenes.
Previously working as the FA’s head of development after leaving his role as the Saints’ academy director a number of years ago, Crocker was involved in the youth set-up on the south coast during a glorious period for the club in that respect, with the likes of Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Adam Lallana establishing themselves as prospects before going on to reach the highest levels of the game.
#SaintsFC is delighted to announce the appointment of The FA’s Matt Crocker as its new Director of Football Operations: https://t.co/2LyqHmibMN
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) November 26, 2019
While the Daily Echo did report that Crocker was unlikely to be a direct replacement for the recently-departed Ross Wilson the announcement on Twitter yesterday saw a lot of fans react with delight. During what has been a difficult campaign for Ralph Hasenhüttl with his side in the bottom three, fans on Twitter were excited for the future with Crocker due to take up his new job in 2020.
Great news, welcome back 😇
— Lorraine Beckett (@lacbeckett) November 26, 2019
We’re gonna win the league in 3-5 years.
— Robbo.J Simpson (@Frankpossum27) November 26, 2019
https://twitter.com/RyanHan92251187/status/1199372993501286404
https://twitter.com/codybartlettt/status/1199373193124945920
This sounds like an excellent idea
— London Saints (@londonsaints) November 26, 2019
Should be good getting us back in the PL next year. Welcome!
— Matt Kemp (@matt_kempez) November 26, 2019
Rebuild has started! Welcome Matt!
— Joe (@joemaston_) November 26, 2019
What do you make of this appointment? Join the discussion by commenting below…
