'A long road with a sweet ending' - Smallbone

Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone spoke to BBC Radio Solent after returning to action against Swansea City: "It's been a tough road. I've had great support around me and It was so nice to get the reception from the fans. It's been a long road, but a very sweet ending.

"I want to help however I can. It's been a tough time to not be able to help the team. Now I'm back, I want to have a positive 2025 and give ourselves every chance [of staying in the league]

On new manager Ivan Juric: "Being out injured and the manager changing wasn't ideal, but I've had a good few weeks of training and a good conversation with the manager. I'm looking forward to helping him, the team and the club in the next few months.

"It shows the character that he is - he's willing to take on any challenge and it's been showing when we've been working with him."