sfc4prem

True. If it is a club decision, fair enough - can't lambast Romeo for that.

You reckon they'd have pulled out I'd he pulled a hammy or something? Love that short-termism from the big clubs.

Players that have left: Good - Lavia - JWP - Tino - ABK (certain, surely?) - Sully (certain, surely?) - Adams (pretty much confirmed) - Salisu Not good - Diallo - DCC - Ely - AMN - Walcott Players that have come in: - Charles (not sure if good or bad, but seems to be the former) - Manning (not sure!) In summary, those of you who are feeling a bit apprehensive and pessimistic about transfers have reason to be. Let's be honest though, did we expect anything else? I'm sure we will get replacements (Tella and Smallbone are almost like new recruits) where we need them, but until we do I can understand the nerves. Let's distance those nerves from our confidence going into games, though. There's a lot of positives to take despite the porous defence and midfield. We'll get there.

Take the £12m and move on. I really like Che's attitude and he's scored some really important goals for us. His all-round play has also been a real boon for us over the years. Wish him all the best.

I get everyone is saying Romeo has been a real professional, and agree to an extent as he has clearly not kicked up a fuss and has been training hard, waiting patiently for an appropriate bid. On the other hand, he's not played in any of the three games we've had so far despite being contracted to us and being paid a handsome sum per week. Unless this was something stipulated by Chelsea in early conversations during negotiations, it is frustrating.

Such pessimism based on one game and some transfer inaction. Russell's had another week training the team. Let's see what they produce on the pitch. Backed by a raucous away following fuelled by beer, there'll be a real desire and focus I think. 3-2 to Saints.

The amount Chelsea spend is mind boggling. Completely different universe.

Why have you posted a no-eyed stag?

Red and white solidarity. Always did like Exeter City FC.

What a finish. Russo excellent there, but Hemp made that. Superb play.

What, not in any way being able to detect the presence of opposing attackers? Yeah, sounds about right

Would make sense for the family section to be in the Itchen closer to the team benches and the tunnel, too.

That's great to hear. It's people with like you that back up words with actions that make these improvements, so well done!

James' direct email is actually worded much better than the message on the official site/twitter... To everyone associated with this incredible football club… I’ve been trying to think of the best way to write this message, but finding the words to express exactly what you all mean to me isn’t easy. Nevertheless, I’m going to try my best. Whether it’s been your amazing support as a fan, your work with me at the training ground, playing alongside me on the pitch, or guiding me off it, each and every one of you has made the last 20 years better than I could have ever had any right to expect. It has given me such pride to represent this club, and it was one of the greatest honours of my life to be made its captain. I have fulfilled so many of my dreams in both football and life while I’ve been here, so it is by no means easy for me to leave. But, at this point in my career and with the desire I have to play European football and also to hopefully still represent my country, I feel it is the right decision for me. I appreciate some of you will understand and that others might not, but I hope you will all know that I have poured my heart and soul into everything over these past two decades. While I may be leaving the club, I can assure you it will not be leaving me and that I will always consider myself a member of the Southampton family. This truly is a special place and I will miss it ever so much. Thank you for everything, James

Maybe the 32/39 stat was goal involvements (goals and assists)?

It seems a pretty appropriate, rational and natural response for many of our fans to be calling for some height and dominance in central defence, in light of our piss-poor defending of set pieces and crosses. Is the set piece issue to do with players, or tactics and coaching? Our zonal marking seems particularly suicidal.

Wasn't there a poster on here that was recruiting people to buy STs at the back in the Itchen/Chapel corner? The two favourite chants of the yoof around me on Saturday were 1. Fuck em up, get into them and 2. E I EI E I O. Also, can't people ever keep OWTS going in slow no clapping mode for more than one verse? They love to shift it into the fast clapping version ASAP, don't they?

If we're sensible we can use the funds to recover some semblance of financial security after relegation whilst also recruiting effectively to ensure we have an improved quality of first team and therefore playing squad.

Fair enough.

Looks like he's used Chat GPT there. Shoddy.

How much would Man City get from the sale of Lavia? We've sold both of our starting CMs. If Charles is to be a starting CM, we still need another, even if Smallbone has come in as a starting CM.

Thanks for your service, James. A professional. Can't agree with him being called a 'legend', but not sure whether that's just the emotion of him leaving making me irrational. Good luck to him.

Not sure that would be a great move from a man that is part of a Portsmouth supporting family?

Where has he said this? Have only seen him say he's excited to play a part in our Championship campaign.

Leicester still have a few quality players and have got two good results so far. I'd pop them as favourites for the title.