Southampton fans were shocked after club managing director Toby Steele said owner Gao Jisheng is passionate about the team even though he is silent.

The Saints are preparing for the new campaign, which kicks off this weekend - they will face Everton at Goodison Park in their first clash. They have been busy in the transfer market, bringing in five new faces (Sky Sports), and they will be hoping to improve on their 15th place finish from last term.

Gao is the man in charge at the club and he is not incredibly popular (This Is Futbol)

It is rare that fans will hear from the businessman, who is already looking to sell the club just four years after buying it (The Daily Echo), while he has failed to invest in the side as much as the supporters want (The Financial Times).

However, Steele has still suggested the boss is 'extremely passionate' about the south-coast outfit.

The comments were shared on Twitter by @SaintsExtra, and they attracted plenty of attention from the supporters. They took to the social media platform to share their thoughts.

Let's see what the fans had to say about the comments on Gao below

"Toby, please, listen to that one back and try and keep a straight face."

Credit: @lucyhighnett

"Still called the owner invisible"

Credit: @neuhausenmatt

"What a joke"

Credit: @MoveRoot

"Next joke"

Credit: @JoshSFC13578

"blink twice if you're being held hostage"

Credit: @bruhsound1111

"Surely if he loves the club he’d let ralph spend money"

Credit: @Oscar87466990

In other news, Southampton want this ace compared to Arjen Robben.