Andoni Iraola
Posted inDaily News

#PLStories- Andoni Iraola reveals loan move of Jaidon Anthony to Leeds United was not controlled by him #AFCB

September 5, 2023
Anthony had featured regularly under new boss Iraola, starting three of the first four games this season. However, after Cherries moved late to sign winger Luis Sinisterra on loan, Anthony was suddenly deemed surplus to requirements, shipped out to Leeds United in the Championship for the rest of the season. Iraola explained earlier in the summer how he has little to do with transfer dealings, leaving that to the likes of Richard Hughes and Neill Blake. Asked how much of a say he had in the shock Sinisterra and Anthony swap deal, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “It is a situation that happened on the last day of the window. “The club thought that we could be stronger adding a player like Luis Sinisterra. “He was on Saturday (at Brentford) watching the game. Now he is going with the national team, so we will not have him for the next 10 to 12 days. “But it is another player we have who can make the difference, starting from wide. It is a good addition for us.” Quizzed on if he supported the idea of Anthony going to Leeds, Iraola added: “It is a decision he had to make. “I tried to help him as much as I could, because Jaidon, I love him as a person and as a player. “Of the four games he has been with me, he has started three. He was very good in pre-season. “But he had to take the decision, because we have a lot of options there out wide. “It is the decision he finally took and I hope the best, because he deserves it. “I know he is going to play very well there in Leeds and I hope he returns next season even better as a player.” Luis Sinisterra joined Cherries on deadline day (Image: PA) Anthony was with Cherries’ squad in the team hotel, getting ready to face Brentford in the Premier League the following day, before his sudden departure. Detailing his conversations with the 23-year-old, Iraola said: “I tried to be as honest as I could, because he deserves it. “I had no problem if he was to stay here, no problem at all. “And you can see because he has played with me, he has started. He is a reliable player. “You tell him to do this, he will do it or he will try to do it. He will make mistakes, like everyone else, but he is a very reliable player. “He had to take the decision knowing the players he will be fighting for in his position. “The option he had also I think was really good, to a very good team. “He decided to take that route. It’s a loan, so I hope he comes back with us, for sure he will, like a better player. “As a person, he is a top, top guy. I think he deserved all the honesty, as much as I could. “I tried to help him, but he was the one with the final decision.”
Levi Colwill
Posted inDaily News

#PLStories- Levi Colwill says farewell to Albion after Chelsea’s loan deal ends #CHELSEAFC #BHAFC

August 2, 2023
Albion wanted Colwill as their priority target in defence after an exceptional season on loan from Chelsea. Colwill became pivotal at left centre back as Albion secured Europa League for the first time ever. There were question marks over whether the England under 21 international would stay at Chelsea this season, with Albion guaranteeing him game time and European football if he were to return. Colwill after the 3-0 win against Arsenal (Image: PA) But Colwill, 20, has now agreed a new six-year contract with Mauricio Pochettino’s side and looks set to be one of their starting defenders. He was one of Albion's priority targets this summer but Pochettino insisted he would get the game time he wanted at Chelsea. Colwill posted on his Instagram this evening a message to Brighton. He said: “To Brighton and Hove Albion. “I am proud to have played a small part in the clubs success last season. “You gave me an opportunity to play in the Premier League when no one else did. I thank Graham Potter for first bringing me to the club and to all the employees at the stadium and training ground for making it a great place to perform and develop “To the fans, you’ve always had my back. Since I got into the side, your continuous support made me feel comfortable to play the way I wanted to play and not fear about making mistakes. “You gave me a platform to shine and show my ability in the best league of the world. I will never forget that you supported me. “Lastly Roberto De Zerbi, you challenged me every day. You made me think and see football in a different way. I cannot thank you enough. “Thank you again. LC.” Despite only making 17 Premier League appearances, Colwill became one of the first names on the team sheet in the second half of the season. Chelsea turned down a £30 million bid for Colwill from Albion and it was reported that De Zerbi’s side were set to bid £40 million for him. Albion signed Brazilian defender Igor Julio from Serie A side Fiorentina last Wednesday as an alternative option. The 25-year-old Brazilian signed on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee which is believed to be in the region of £14 million.
Nathan Jones
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Southampton manager Nathan Jones happy to welcome Bednarek into squad after loan recall #SAINTSFC

January 24, 2023
SAINTS manager Nathan Jones has expressed his support for defender Jan Bednarek after the 26-year-old was recalled from his loan spell at Aston Villa. Bednarek departed St Mary’s on transfer deadline day but his season-long loan spell at Villa Park has now been cut short with the centre-back returning to Saints for the remainder of the season.  The recall came with a mixed reaction from Saints fans after Bednarek spoke about his excitement at joining a ‘bigger club’ in his introductory interview with Aston Villa. But asked about the potential negative reception the Polish international could receive from the Saints faithful, Jones told the Daily Echo that they had discussed it and that he isn’t concerned. “We spoke about it but he’s an experienced international player,” Jones said. “I understand why there will be…but let’s take some context. Some people say some stuff when they go somewhere. And it just happens. You just say it because you want to endear yourself.  “Sometimes you don’t think or sometimes you don’t think about what the collateral damage could be behind you but there was no malice about it.  “He loves the club, he’s very popular in the changing room, and he worked very very hard for Southampton. It wasn’t anything to do with the club. He probably just wanted to endear himself to Aston Villa and that’s how I would see it.” Speaking earlier in his press conference on Monday afternoon ahead of Saints’ League Cup semi-final first-leg clash with Newcastle United, Jones explained the reasoning behind the decision to recall Bednarek. "We felt we need a bit more experience in there, a bit more of a leader, a bit more of a voice,” the former Luton Town boss answered.  “Because with the greatest respect, we’ve got some young centre halves here, some of whom are in their first season in the Premier League, it’s a tough league. "So we just felt we needed a bit of experience, a bit of aggression, a little bit of something in there. We could have gone out and signed someone new. But Janny (Bednarek)...someone who knows the place, someone who knows the building, has played in an aggressive team before…we felt he was the logical one.” And not only is Jones excited to welcome back the experienced central defender, but he even indicated that Bednarek could be thrust straight into the action on Tuesday night against Newcastle. "Absolutely," he responded when asked if Bednarek was in contention to face the Magpies.  "He played in the FA Cup a couple of weeks ago, he played 90 minutes against Stevenage. I know it’s not a Premier League game but Stevenage under Steve Evans…I know all about them. "Look, he’s in a place where he’s in contention. Whether he starts, whether he plays 90 minutes...is a different thing. But sooner or later he’s got to get up to speed. We’ll take calculated risks and gambles with players. "I doubt he’s ready to go 90 minutes tomorrow night but he could be for 60 or 65 and we’ve got a squad that can handle that." Bednarek has appeared three times for Saints this season starting the first match of their League Cup quest, a 3-0 win at Cambridge United in August. A message from the Editor Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo. Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website. You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Nathan Jones
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Southampton not considering Nathan Tella recall from Burnley #SAINTSFC

January 23, 2023
EXCITING attacker Nathan Tella is set to stay with Burnley for the remainder of his season-long loan spell after Saints boss Nathan Jones stated the club is not looking to recall the 23-year-old. Tella has enjoyed a productive Championship campaign, scoring nine times as Burnley cruise toward automatic promotion. But despite his impressive form and Saints’ need for additional attacking firepower, Jones does not feel that recalling Tella is the right move for all parties. READ MORE: Saints team news ahead of Newcastle clash as Jones confirms Bednarek eligibility “No, not at the minute,” Jones answered in response to whether or not the club was considering recalling Tella.   “We're really happy with Nathan, he's doing fantastically well at Burnley. He's having a real good experience and he is flying.  “But with the greatest of respect, for him to come back and do that at Premier League level, we are not sure. We've got people like Adam Armstrong who have been prolific at Championship level. So we've got good competition in that area.  “What we would like is something a little bit different in terms of maybe size, maybe real aggression. Nathan is doing fantastic under Vincent (Kompany) and is having a wonderful season for his development.  “At the end of the season, there's is a big decision to make. But it's been a really productive loan for him and it is in his benefit to stay there.” Jones has made no secret of his desire to add increased potency to his attack as Saints enter the final ten days of the January transfer window. A message from the Editor Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo. Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website. You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Ralph Hasenhuttl
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl gives his verdict on recalling loaned player Nathan Tella #SAINTSFC

October 28, 2022
SAINTS manager Ralph Hasenhuttl remained coy on the possibility of recalling in-form Nathan Tella from his loan spell with Championship leaders Burnley. After a frustrating campaign hampered by injuries, Tella left St Mary's for Turf Moor on a season-long loan in the summer. Dropping down a division, Tella has excelled under former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, making 16 appearances and scoring six times. It is believed that Saints have the option to recall the talented forward in January, but speaking on Thursday ahead of this weekend's trip to Crystal Palace, Hasenhuttl refused to say whether that was a possibility the club is pursuing. READ MORE: Analysing impressive Tella loan spell and what it says about Saints future "We will see what we do," the Austrian answered. "We have our eyes open and we will definitely look very detailed into what we will do with him." Despite signing a new long-term contract with Saints last winter, Tella failed to nail down a consistent starting spot in Hasehuttl's side, starting a total of ten games over the course of the 2021/22 season. Three words: Nathan Tella Baby 🎶 pic.twitter.com/cADjmHBvhN — Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) October 11, 2022 With Sekou Mara, Joe Aribo, and Samuel Edozie joining the club's forward ranks this summer, Tella's route to regular minutes was blocked further and as such, the decision was made for the 24-year-old to head out on loan. He has already established himself as a fan-favourite in Lancashire and a crucial element of Burney's promotion aspirations. "I'm very pleased (with his progress)," Hasenhuttl added.  "I know that some people say it's only the Championship that he scores goals but I must say it's still a big achievement. "For me and this is exactly what we wanted to see - that he gets a lot of game time and can show his qualities. I mean he has shown it also in the Premier League so far. For him, it didn't look like he would get enough game time this season. But I think it was the right decision to take (loan him). Burnley currently sit top of the Championship table with Tella second in their goalscoring charts behind only former Saint Jay Rodriguez. A message from the Editor Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo. Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website. You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more. Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself. Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News
Gary O’Neil
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Gary O’Neil believes ‘Unfair’ to ask Jack Stephens for scouting report on parent club Southampton #SAINTSFC

October 19, 2022
INTERIM boss Gary O’Neil said it would be “unfair” to ask Jack Stephens to provide a scouting report on parent club Saints and insisted: “I'll do my own research.” Stephens joined Cherries on loan from St Mary’s on transfer deadline day, sealing a season-long switch to Vitality Stadium. The Torpoint-born centre-back made two top-flight appearances for Saints this campaign before arriving at Cherries – where he has made one first-team substitute display thus far. He has been at Saints for more than a decade, having signed from Plymouth in April 2011 for a reported £150,000. Quizzed on whether he would be asking the 28-year-old for a scouting report on Saints, O’Neil replied: “No, that would be unfair on him. “I'll do my own research on Southampton, so I wouldn't put Jack in that situation.” Stephens is ineligible to feature when Cherries host Saints at Vitality Stadium tomorrow (7.30pm). The centre-back has made 90 appearances under Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, who has seen his side struggle in recent weeks with just one point coming from five games. O’Neil added: “I think he has a quite defined style as a coach, and they're generally very front foot and aggressive. “That's sort of always how I've seen these teams. They look to press, they look to put good pressure on you. “When you change a lot of players in the summer, and especially when you sign some young ones, sometimes you need a little while for things to come into place. “And I'm sure that Ralph will turn it around. He's had a really good track record. So, yeah, it'll be a very, very tough game for us.”
Ralph Hasenhuttl
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl explains why Southampton loaned Nathan Tella to Burnley #SAINTSFC #BurnleyFC

September 22, 2022
RALPH Hasenhuttl has insisted he was already “fully convinced” by out-on-loan Nathan Tella, even before he began to excel in the Championship. The 23-year-old has become a fan favourite at Burnley after scoring three goals in his first eight matches, and contributing elsewhere too. The former Arsenal academy starlet got fans off their seats with an exceptional first touch and skill to win a penalty in a televised Friday evening clash with West Brom. Tella, who has made 41 appearances for Saints, could likely be contributing in Hasenhuttl’s first-team but at this stage of his injury-hit career, regular minutes were deemed most important. “Exactly, yeah. This is always the balance you have to find, you are fully convinced about this player but cannot give him the chance to develop,” Hasenhuttl told the Daily Echo, when asked about Tella. “The most important thing at this age is the guys are playing games every weekend, this is the only chance to make them better and bring them on to the highest level. "This is not always possible – only sessions and training. This is why we decided to let him go. Hopefully we won’t miss him for now. “We have more than only these guys who are willing to learn and willing to do a good job. This should be normally the standard.” The Austrian added: "We get reports after every weekend, which is normal I think. We are also watching them, we have a few players now in the Championship and they are doing quite well. "Nathan is scoring goals, Will Smallbone is always playing. This is exactly what we wanted them to do and we have them on our radar and we’re very happy they get the chance to play.” Tella was forced off the pitch with injury 73 minutes into a clash with Burnley's Lancashire rivals Preston North End, but returned in time for their next match versus Bristol City. Burnley, targeting automatic promotion under Vincent Kompany, currently sit fourth in the Championship table with 17 points from their opening 10 fixtures. Tella himself has spoken openly about enjoying his spell in Lancashire, which could see him play regularly in the Championship for the rest of the season. "When you are playing football you have no reason not to smile," said Tella. "I am really enjoying it and I feel like I am really coming out of my shell and I am playing with confidence and I want to keep that up. "I feel like everyone gets touches of the ball (in the system) we have a lot of possession and opportunities for the boys to show how good they are. I can't really fault it. “Some defences can push up and Jay Rodriguez likes to go in short so it gives me space to run into behind and gives me an opportunity to show my legs." A message from the Editor Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo. Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website. You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more. Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today. Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook
William Smallbone Southampton
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl says it ‘Not easy’ choice to sanction Will Smallbone loan exit #SAINTSFC

August 9, 2022
RALPH Hasenhuttl will be pleased to see Will Smallbone making an instant impact on loan at Stoke City, revealing “it was not so easy” to sanction his exit this summer. The 22-year-old Saints academy graduate has hit the ground running in the Championship, winning man-of-the-match in his first start for the Potters. Smallbone, who played 84 minutes of his side’s 2-0 victory over Blackpool on Saturday, has suffered a stop-start Saints career due to injuries over the last two years. He looks to record a fully fit season for the first time since making his debut under Hasenhuttl in 2020, and will hopefully feature heavily in a 46-match league season. The Republic of Ireland under-21s star was one of Hasenhuttl’s top performers during the pre-season tour of Austria, before his move to Stoke was confirmed on July 23. “I hope to see him playing a lot,” Hasenhuttl told the Daily Echo, asked what he wants to see from the Basingstoke-born midfielder. “To be honest, it was not so easy to say ‘you can go’. “He had a good pre-season and especially in this shape on the eight, he was a player who showed his qualities – so it was really not so easy to say ‘okay, we will let you go’. “But it is still tough to get a chance to play here, there are some good players waiting to play on this position so it is not so easy for him.” Summer addition Romeo Lavia, just 18 years old but one of Saints’ best players in their Premier League opener, already adds depth to stalwarts Oriol Romeu and James Ward-Prowse, as well as £12million Frenchman Ibrahima Diallo. After making just four Premier League appearances last season, following his recovery from an ACL injury, the decision was made to allow Smallbone the opportunity to find regular minutes. The youngster is well liked and has some of the best ball-playing abilities in the group, but a Championship season could help him bulk and prepare for the task of a Premier League breakthrough. “For young players especially, it is important to get some game-time, and that’s why we agreed to the loan,” Hasenhuttl added, while Saints typically reserve a January recall option on their loans. At the weekend, Smallbone said: “I loved it out there. I wanted to come out on loan and play some games, and I had the opportunity to do that (Saturday), and it was fantastic.” “I am so grateful to the manager and the club for giving me this opportunity and naturally I want to make the most of this and repay their faith in me. “This is a great group of lads and it has been so easy for me to settle in here – I felt really comfortable out there, I enjoyed it but there is a lot more to come.” Smallbone could be in action again for Stoke tonight when they travel to League One Morecambe, in the first round of the EFL Cup. There, he could face fellow Saints loanee Caleb Watts. A message from the Editor Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo. Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website. You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more. Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself. Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News
Wout Weghorst
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Burnley and Holland striker Wout Weghorst recalls special time on loan at Turf Moore #BURNLEYFC

July 7, 2022
Wout Weghorst says his time at Turf Moor has been “special” and hasn’t ruled out playing for Burnley again. The forward joined the Clarets from Wolfsburg for a reported £12million fee back in January, scoring two goals in 20 appearances as the club was relegated from the Premier League. The 29-year-old has now joined Turkish outfit Besiktas on a season-long loan as he aims to make the Holland squad for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. “I had my thoughts already before I moved to Burnley half a year ago. Of course, we spoke about it,” Weghorst told the club’s Twitter page. “The World Cup is coming up now and that is really important for me, I think it is my biggest dream. It is the biggest (thing) you can achieve as a professional football player. “We have got a trainer (Louis van Gaal) who has clear thoughts about it and playing at the highest level. He is really strict about it so if I want to be there, I had to make the decision.” Despite suffering relegation, Weghorst says he made memories at Turf Moor that “will always have a place in my heart”. The Dutch international refused to rule out the possibility of playing for the Clarets again after his loan spell. He added: “The Burnley fans at Turf Moor, they actually made my dream in England, my Premier League dream. The club and especially the fans, they made it that special. “The songs they sung for me and the moments we shared, it is something which I will always keep in my mind and will always have a place in my heart. “Don’t get me wrong, it is absolutely not that I am feeling too good for the Championship or that I don’t want to play in the Championship with Burnley. “From my side, there are some reasons for it and I spoke with the club before I came. We had our discussions about it, our vision and thoughts. “There could be a return from my side and we could have more positive and successful moments together. I am looking forward to that moment.”
Vincent Kompany
Posted in2022-2023-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Burnley manager Vincent Company signs Taylor Harwood-Bellis on loan from Manchester City #BURNELYFC #MCFC

July 2, 2022
Burnley have completed the signing of Taylor Harwood-Bellis on a season-long loan from Manchester City. The 20-year-old joined City at the age of eight and has made eight first-team appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side. Harwood-Bellis played under Vincent Kompany at Anderlecht during the first half of last season and also had a spell at Stoke. He is the Clarets’ third defensive recruit this summer following the arrivals of Luke McNally and CJ Egan-Riley. “I’m buzzing with it. I obviously knew about it for a while, so I’m happy to get it all done - all the medical stuff done - and to get it all sorted,” said the defender. “I feel like this will hopefully be the best season that I’ll have in the Championship with all the experience I’ve got and I’m looking forward to a good season. Hopefully it’s one with lots of success." Harwood-Bellis has also represented England from Under-16 to Under-21 level and even captained the U21 side. Kompany added: "I am looking forward to working with Taylor once again, and I know first-hand the qualities he will bring to the group. "Taylor is a fantastic player and leader with a tremendous mentality that fits within our culture, and he knows exactly what the Championship is all about. “We would like to thank Manchester City for allowing Taylor to join us on loan for the upcoming season." Clarets on social, plus take out a subscription... Keep up to date with our Burnley coverage on social media by joining us on Facebook and Twitter Gain unlimited access to the Lancashire Telegraph website with a premium digital subscription Or if you want the Telegraph newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227
Bailey Peacock-Farrell
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Burnley loaned goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell reveals joy of helping Sheffield Wednesday promotion #BURNLEYFC #SWFC

March 10, 2022
BAILEY Peacock-Farrell reckons he has “improved massively” since going out on loan to Sheffield Wednesday. The Northern Ireland international has been a regular starter for the Yorkshire club in League One this season. He has also continued to represent his country, with his last international appearance coming in a 1-0 win against Lithuania back in November. Peacock-Farrell insists going out on loan has had a big impact on his development and is keen to keep improving in the coming weeks. “All football players want to be playing week in, week out,” he told the Sheffield Star. “You can’t really beat the feeling of being number one and helping your team every single week or twice a week. "It’s a great feeling to be a part of it. I feel like I’m doing well, there’s room to improve as always and get better. "I want more from myself and there are still things that can be achieved this season, it’s not done yet.” Darren Moore’s men are currently sixth in the league table as they bid to make an immediate return to the Championship. Peacock-Farrell has ambitions of becoming an established Premier League goalkeeper but insists that right now his main focus is helping the Owls secure promotion. "It would mean a lot," he added. "To get a promotion under your belt and help this club get back to the level it deserves and kick on from there. "It's a great achievement for any player that they can look back on their career and see they got promotion at any level. It’s something that you look forward to.” Clarets on social, plus take out a subscription... Keep up to date with our Burnley coverage on social media by joining us on Facebook and Twitter Gain unlimited access to the Lancashire Telegraph website with a premium digital subscription Or if you want the Telegraph newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227
Ralph Hasenhuttl
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Ralph Hasenhuttl gives Armando Broja a warning as he gives latest on Chelsea loanee’s future #SAINTSFC

February 5, 2022
RALPH Hasenhuttl has sent Armando Broja the warning “there are a lot of examples where players, after changing clubs, do not perform like they have with us,” amid a potential battle for his future. There was no movement on Saints’ position on the Chelsea loanee as the January transfer window came and went, with Broja always set to remain at St Mary’s for at least this campaign. Despite reports of interest from a number of Premier League rivals, as well as the potential for Chelsea to want to keep hold of the 20-year-old, Saints still retain an interest in keeping him permanently. CEO Martin Semmens is in constant contact with Blues over what Broja’s next move will be, with all options thought to be considered by Saints in a bid to keep him longer. Armando Broja has five goals in his debut Premier League season (Pic: Stuart Martin) However, Hasenhuttl was asked again if he was worried about the Albanian’s future and this time sent the striker a warning that the grass is not always greener. “He knows how important it is for him as a player to play continuously,” Hasenhuttl responded, unmoved by suggestions of heightened interest elsewhere. “Here he gets that chance and has shown he fits to us and our shape. “There are a lot of examples where players after changing clubs do not perform like they have done with us.” Danny Ings has scored just four in the league at Aston Villa (Pic: PA) The Austrian added: “It is important he knows this and that his agent knows this. “We have a good relationship with Chelsea and are in good contact. He is their player. We have tried to develop him here, and I think we have. “If they think we should do it another year and do not want to sell him in the summer, then there is no better spot to be,” he added, suggesting that Saints will lead the race for a further loan spell, if that is to be Chelsea’s decision. Martin Semmens and Sport Republic will try to keep Armando Broja at St Mary's beyond June (Pic: Stuart Martin) “It is not always in our hands and if he or the club have any other ideas, it is how it is.” Hasenhuttl could be pointing to any number of Saints stars that he and the club have sold on who have not yet matched the heights they hit wearing red and white. From the recent summer exodus, Ryan Bertrand and Jannik Vestergaard have failed to impress under Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers after forcing Saints exits. Leicester 3-1 up vs Liverpool and bring on Bertrand and Vestergaard.20 mins later: 3-3, Bertrand misses final, crucial penalty and they’re out. #SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/0hg4prsapt — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) December 22, 2021 Meanwhile, Danny Ings – who Aston Villa parted with £30million to acquire in August – has only registered four goals in 16 Premier League appearances, with two of those coming in the first two matches of the campaign. But that exodus, which lead to many outside of the club tipping Saints for a relegation battle, is exactly why Hasenhuttl was so pleased that not one Saints player wanted to leave this January. “Maybe it is because everybody sees we are in a very positive way, in a developing way and we are getting better,” he speculated. “We have some young players who are getting better and are getting better as a team. The mentality has changed a little bit. Armando Broja gets to play alongside childhood friend Tino Livramento (Pic: Stuart Martin) “When we stay on this track, we have a lot of positive surprises possible with this club. This is why everybody wants to be with us now and we try to give every player the atmosphere to develop.” Hasenhuttl added: “If somebody thinks he wants to go somewhere else and we cannot keep him, then there are other players around. “The most important thing for us is we have an image as a club that develops players fantastically. 19🎂🥳! Let’s keep working & moving forward. Thank you for all your support as always. pic.twitter.com/g0c6kWo4Rr — tino livramento (@tino_livramento) November 12, 2021 “That is worth more than all the money you can pay a player because, especially for the young lads, and there are a lot of talented players in England, they do not get a chance to play somewhere. “They are highly welcome, and they are phoning us asking us to take them and give them a chance to play.” Those comments lead to Hasenhuttl being asked if Saints are no longer a ‘selling club’, although the boss somewhat rejected that notion as an outright negative. Unconfirmed reports link interest to Saints' Mohammed Salisu (Pic: Stuart Martin) “It will never change because there will always be a bigger club than we are,” he said. “It is a good sign that they are looking at us because it means we are doing a good job here because otherwise they wouldn’t. “When they leave here, they are different players to when they are arrived. This is what we try to do.”
Dynel Simeu
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Southampton player Dynel Simeu dreams of playing for Saints after loan to Carlisle United #SAINTSFC

January 29, 2022
AMBITIOUS Dynel Simeu is hoping his loan spell with Carlisle United can help him achieve his dream of playing for Saints – with the defender also wanting to help others achieve dreams of their own. Born in Cameroon, Simeu moved to England at the age of three, with his family settling in Southampton. After playing for multiple clubs at youth level in the area, Simeu was spotted by Chelsea, where he would go on to spend six years before joining Saints last summer. In the weeks leading up to his loan move to League Two, Simeu had been involved in numerous matchday squads and the first team bubble, but did not make his debut for the south coast club. Undeterred, the 19-year-old is now aiming to impress at Carlisle in order to kick-start his senior football career. Speaking to the News and Star, Simeu said: “My short term dreams first of all are to play for Southampton. “I really want to play for Southampton, I want to make my debut, hopefully be a part of the club. “I want to have a good career at the top-flight. I want to play a few hundred games. “I don’t know what’s in store for me, but I want to make sure I reach my peak, I want to win trophies, be part of the team as a main player – and I want to help my family.” Before all of that can come, the England youth international is keen to knuckle down at Carlisle. “I want to embrace the culture and team, want to be one of them, want to do everything they do,” Simeu continued. “At the moment I’m a Carlisle player and I’m ready to play with them. “I think it will be different to what I’ve done before. I just think I’ll enjoy it. I’m ready. “I want to make the most of it, make sure I make the most out of this opportunity.” Simeu was one of three Chelsea youngsters that made the move south this summer, with the centre-half having a personal connection to the area. “I’d say when Southampton came up I took it as a great opportunity,” stated Simeu. “Even though I’d never played for them, Southampton itself is close to my heart. “It’s a place which means a lot to me. I went to school there, got scouted from there, and the city’s done a lot for me. “I want to give my all to Southampton. The fans have been great, I get messages daily from fans, [I often] get spotted. “It’s a team that’s supported by the community. “I’ve been back to my school and it’s great seeing the kids, because they have a real belief. “I want to be someone they can look up to, someone who can make them believe and show them there’s a pathway. I want to help my friends fulfil their dreams.”
Ralph Hasenhuttl
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Southampton boss unaware of Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell’s Kayne Ramsay comments on loan recall #SAINTSFC

January 20, 2022
RALPH Hasenhuttl has admitted that he was unaware of Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell’s comments alleging that Saints only made him aware they were recalling Kayne Ramsay the night before a game. Last week, youngster Ramsay was moved from his season-long loan spell at the League One side to Scottish Premiership outfit Ross County – where he made a substitute debut last night. He was scheduled to face Charlton Athletic with the League One competitors, where he had made 15 league appearances, but instead did not feature. Following Crewe’s fixture, Artell said: “Tuesday night I received a call from Kayne’s agent that he was being recalled by Southampton and I’ve not heard from Kayne since. It is what it is and we move on.” Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell (Pic: PA) Following up, the Railwaymen confirmed to the Daily Echo that this was the official line from the club regarding Ramsay’s move and that they had to rejig their tactical plans for the clash. However, Hasenhuttl has admitted that he had not heard Artell’s comments or knew if Ramsay was indeed recalled in such a manner. “I haven’t heard about that,” the Austrian told the Daily Echo. Kayne Ramsay will spend the rest of the season at Ross County (Pic: PA) “Normally it shouldn’t be that short term and for sure this is not perfect. What exactly the fact is I have no idea and I will ask about it.” Ramsay was not the only player to have his season-long loan spell cut short at a club before being moved elsewhere. French 22-year-old striker Dan Nlundulu also switched locations, moving from League One Lincoln City to Cheltenham Town in the same division. Dan Nlundulu scored for Cheltenham Town on his club debut at the weekend (Pic: PA) Hasenhuttl continued: “The thinking behind this (the moves) is that they should get the gametime to play on a regular basis, because they wouldn’t have the chance to do this and this is why we send them on loan and keep them playing football – it’s important for them. “I know about all the decisions and they are all in agreement with Matt Crocker (director of football) and with the coaches down there.”
Ralph Hasenhuttl
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Saints youngster Dan Nlundulu says he didn’t have the best six months with Southampton #SAINTSFC

January 18, 2022
DAN NLUNDULU is hoping a new challenge at Cheltenham Town will help to "build on my confidence" after admitting: "At Lincoln I didn't have the best six months." The Saints youngster joined Michael Appleton's Imps in the summer, on a season-long loan deal. However, after making 21 appearances and scoring just one goal, he had his stay cut short earlier this month. Nlundulu was quickly on the move again, to another League One club in Cheltenham. On his second appearance for the Robins at the weekend, the 22-year-old struck in a 1-1 draw with Charlton Athletic. He received a warm ovation from the fans at the Jonny-Rocks Stadium after being withdrawn late on. Speaking after the game, striker Nlundulu said: "It was nice to hear the fans clapping and to feel the love from the fans because at Lincoln I didn’t have the best six months, due to confidence and as a footballer its ups and downs. "Now I’m here at Cheltenham, new system, new manager, new players. It just fits right for me. "I feel like I can express myself and it’s just a great platform to show your ability. I feel like I’m doing that. I just need to keep going and build on my confidence. "Hopefully this is the first (goal) of many." Discussing what he preferred about the system at Cheltenham, Nlundulu said: "Playing two up front. Playing two strikers is so important. "The gaffer said that to me early on. Especially the way I play, the way I link play and bring players into the game, I feel like it’s great. "Playing on your own in League One is very hard. It’s always a fight, a battle. Playing two up front is great and you can see the benefit it has on us. I feel like it’s going to be a good end to the season." Asked if the system at Lincoln played a part on why he struggled to make a big impact, he added: "Yes, in a way. Because as a player, bringing people into play and holding the ball up, I just found it very hard. "I felt like I was on my own at all times. But here I’m receiving it, I’ve got players running off me, I’ve got Alfie (May) right next to me. "We understand each other. I understand them, they understand me. This is only my second game, so let’s see what happens on my 10th game when we’re training and get to know each other even off the pitch, because that helps as well. I’m looking forward to it, I’m excited to see what’s next. "Obviously I’m on loan, wherever my next journey is from here, I don’t know. But if I can help Cheltenham go up, or get in the play-offs, it’s good for the club and obviously good for me."
Graham Potter Brighton
Posted in2021-2022-Season Daily News

#PLStories- Graham Potter confirms Promising Brighton midfielder Taylor Richards has joined Championship side Birmingham City on loan #BHAFC

January 8, 2022
ALBION youngster Taylor Richards has joined Birmingham City on loan until the end of the season. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder becomes the latest young player to make the move to the Championship. Head coach Graham Potter said, "Taylor has been with the first-team squad for the first part of the season, he has benefitted from that time and he has made great progress during that time. "He has played in the Carabao Cup ties and also made his Premier League debut, but we feel it is now important for him to play regular football during the second half of the season and he will get that opportunity with Birmingham, a club I know well." He scored 11 goals and contributed five assists in 48 appearances during a highly successful spell at Rovers in League One. Richards, who joined Albion in 2019 from Manchester City, has also represented England at under-17 level. He made his Premier League debut as a substitute in the home match against Everton earlier this season, and has made five first-team appearances for Albion.