Desperately in search for more first-team minutes with Cesar Azpilicueta the undisputed No.1 left-back at Chelsea under Jose Mourinho, Ryan Bertrand joined Southampton on a season-long loan for the 2014/15 Premier League campaign.
And having made quite the impression during his time at Stamford Bridge despite being a peripheral figure, the defender’s arrival was one supporters were delighted to see.
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 Excellent signing, quality player. #believe #saintsfc
— Steven Lewis (@steve_veho) July 30, 2014
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 @chelseafc thank god for that, welcome Ryan
— Rolfey SFC (@paulrolfe75) July 30, 2014
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 welcome to #saintsfc, hope the option is there to make it permanent
— Chris Horgan (@soundingcriss) July 30, 2014
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 @chelseafc didn’t see that one coming! Welcome Ryan
— Martyn Smith (@NytramSmith) July 30, 2014
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 @chelseafc good news someone coming in that’s a start.
— Steveo (@sfcsteveo66) July 30, 2014
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 @chelseafc It's a good place to start chaps. Welcome Ryan, you'll like it here!!
— Sam (@Sam_Gibbo1885) July 30, 2014
@SouthamptonFC @ryanbertrand3 @chelseafc Les Reed you genius !!!
— Dave Farrow (@abbeycleaners2) July 30, 2014
Bertrand, of course, made a name for himself after making his European debut in a Champions League final where he put in a confident and astute performance for Chelsea as they went on to beat Bayern Munich on penalties at the Allianz Arena.
Based on that display alone, it was unsurprising to see the St. Mary’s faithful welcome Bertrand with such open arms, and the 29-year-old has since repaid the faith shown in him.
At Southampton, Bertrand has become one of the leading left-backs in the Premier League. The former Chelsea man is so dominant on the left flank, providing a constant threat in attack while also ensuring his standard of defending is up to scratch.
Now at the club permanently, Bertrand has been one of the best signings Southampton have made in recent years.
