Southampton

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  1. Brentford 3-1 Southampton: What Martin saidpublished at 17:34 31 August 2024

    Russell Martin, Manager of Southampton, applaud the fansImage source, Getty Images

    Southampton manager Russell Martin to Sky Sports: "We're very disappointed with the result and the goals we conceded. I feel like we're hurting ourselves a little bit. We had the best chance in the first half with Adam Armstrong. it's about taking a breath in that moment, that's my job to get rid of the tension. I don't think there was much in it between the two teams. We have to stop making mistakes that hurt us.

    "What comes first is us and I don't think Thomas [Frank] will say it's their pressing because it's mistakes from us. We get punished in the Premier League as you do in the Championship. it's a much better performance than against Nottingham Forest.

    "The subs had a great impact and the team will be different against Manchester United, that is for sure. Cam Archer was great when he came on. Adam Lallana came on and showed you how much quality he has.

    "It's a brilliant goal but we should have scored two or three today."

  2. Sutton's predictions: Brentford v Southamptonpublished at 11:01 31 August 2024

    Chris Sutton and Adam F

    Chris Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League matches this season, against a variety of guests.

    For week three, he takes on MOBO Award-winning drum & bass legend and producer Adam F.

    Sutton's prediction: 2-0

    Southampton aren't creating enough chances.

    Brentford have won one and lost one. The Toney situation will have to get resolved soon.

    But Brentford at home, you can't really back against them. They're playing a promoted side who are struggling to create.

    Adam F's prediction: 1-1

    It's so early on in the season to know what to expect from some of these teams. I am going for a draw.

    Read the full predictions and have your say

  3. Promoted sides splash summer cashpublished at 10:51 31 August 2024

    Graph showing spending and receipts for Leicester, Ipswich and Southampton in the summer transfer window

    The three promoted teams all splashed some of their Premier League cash to try to improve their chances of staying up.

    Ipswich and Southampton have both spent more than £100m, while Leicester paid out more than £75m.

    Ipswich spent £109m on 10 players - seven of whom are from Premier League clubs including Chelsea's Omari Hutchinson, who joined for £20m after a successful loan.

    Southampton's signings, which included the deadline-day arrival of Ramsdale, were from a wider variety of divisions.

    Leicester, meanwhile, recruited exclusively from top divisions - with four of their seven signings from the Premier League and one from each of the Italian, Portuguese and Belgian leagues.

    More on the summer window trends

  4. Saints sign West Ham forward Cornet on loanpublished at 00:31 31 August 2024

    Maxwel CornetImage source, Getty Images

    Southampton have signed West Ham forward Maxwel Cornet on a season long-loan.

    The 27-year-old was part of the Hammers 2023 Europa Conference League winning squad and has made 37 appearances for them over two seasons.

    Saints boss Russell Martin said: "Maxwel is a very dynamic player and he gives us another exciting dimension to the group.

    "He’s someone who can be a real threat to the opposition on the pitch and I’m delighted the ownership group and board have been able to get another attacking option in for us.

    "He’s really excited to be coming here and I think it’s a move that can bring out the best in him and work really well for both him and us."

  5. 'One of my proudest moments' - Fraser on Saints returnpublished at 21:57 30 August 2024

    Ryan FraserImage source, Getty Images

    Southampton have signed free agent Ryan Fraser, 30, after the winger was released by Newcastle United at the end of the 2024-25 season.

    He played for the Saints on loan last season, helping Russell Martin's team to gain promotion to the Premier League.

    Upon Fraser's return, Martin said: “Wee Man played such an important part in our squad last season, both on the pitch and in the dressing room, and all of us are delighted to have him back.

    “Everyone could see the quality and creativity he has and he delivered in so many big moments for us. What many people outside of the building won’t have seen is the impact he also had off the pitch within the group, and it’s fantastic for us to be able to keep someone not only with great ability, but the same level of character too.

    “His experience in the Premier League is an additional asset, and he’s delivered at that level consistently over the time he’s played there, so it’s another really positive signing for us.”

    Fraser said: "I'm probably the happiest man in Southampton at the minute. It's been a long summer from the play-off final to now, but my number one goal was to get back here and now that it's happened, it's one of my proudest moments to be honest. Probably second after winning the play-offs. So yeah, it's really nice to be here.

    "I think the journey that the players and the fans went through last season, we came together and it's amazing to be back."

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  6. 'A player we have big belief in' - Frank on Meghoma signingpublished at 20:55 30 August 2024

    Jayden MeghomaImage source, Getty Images

    Brentford believe they have signed "one of the biggest left-back talents in the country" after sealing a deal for Southampton's Jayden Meghoma.

    The 18-year-old made four senior appearances for the Saints and moves to Thomas Frank's Bees to become their fifth first-team signing of the summer.

    “I’m very pleased with this signing,” said head coach Frank.

    “Jayden is an England youth international and one of the biggest left-back talents this country has.

    “Again, we had competition from other clubs, so we are definitely doing something right.

    “I like Jayden’s offensive ability - he is quick, has good one-on-one skill and can cross – and he has good defensive ability as well. He is adaptable and can play outside or inside full-back.

    “There is still a lot he can learn, but Jayden is a player we have big belief in. He can help us this season and in the future.”

    An image detailing how to follow your Premier League team on BBC Sport: "On the app? Tap the bell icon to get news about your club sent to you. Signed in on a browser? Hit 'Follow' to stay up to date.
  7. Should transfer window close before season starts?published at 16:20 30 August 2024

    Media caption,

    Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder and Planet Premier League pundit Cesc Fabregas believes the transfer window should close before the season begins.

    Listen to the Planet Premier League podcast on BBC Sounds

  8. Ramsdale joins Saints - the fans' verdictpublished at 16:03 30 August 2024

    Your views banner
    Aaron Ramsdale poses in a Southampton kitImage source, Getty Images

    We asked for your views on Aaron Ramsdale's transfer from Arsenal to Southampton.

    Here are some of your comments:

    Pete: It's a great signing and not before time. The last big signing I remember years ago was for Shilton so let's hope. We should have attempted to sign Broja as he did a season on loan for us and was one of the finest strikers we had. Here's to a hopeful season.

    Mark: Very happy with the signing of Ramsdale. The signings of Downes and Harwood-Bellis were crucial, as was holding on to Walker-Peters. But I still feel we are going to struggle up front unless we also bring in an experienced striker!

    Martin: Brilliant signing for us. We haven't had a solid keeper for a while. Saints showing some intent this season to stay up. Good luck Rambo.

  9. 'The manager made me feel 8ft tall' - Ramsdale joins Saintspublished at 13:14 30 August 2024

    Aaron RamsaleImage source, Southampton FC

    Aaron Ramsdale is thrilled to have completed his move from Arsenal to Southampton and praised the way manager Russell Martin sold the project at St Mary's to him.

    “I’m absolutely delighted," he said. "The way the manager wants to play, the way he was when I spoke to him, he was just full of so much enthusiasm.

    "I’d never met him before, but he made me feel about 8ft tall, which is just what you want.

    “Coming back down to the south coast, for me and my family, would be an easier transition than most - so I feel like I can hit the ground running.

    “I’m looking forward to this year, just getting back to what I do best and having a big smile on my face.”

    Martin added: “Bringing in a player like Aaron is a real statement signing for us, so I’m very grateful to the ownership and the board for making it happen, especially as so many other clubs were keen to get him.

    “Aaron is obviously a very talented goalkeeper, but also an impressive all-round football player, which is clearly important for us with the way we play.

    “His reputation speaks for itself. He brings great experience even at what is still a relatively young age at his position. He's a fantastic character too, who I think will be a wonderful addition for us both on the pitch and in the dressing room."

    Follow Transfer Deadline Day on BBC Sport

  10. Brentford agree fee for defender Meghomapublished at 12:29 30 August 2024

    Nizaar Kinsella
    BBC Sport football news reporter

    Jayden Meghoma of Southampton arrives at a stadiumImage source, Getty Images

    Brentford have agreed a fee with Southampton for teenage defender Jayden Meghoma.

    The 18-year-old England youth international has already completed a medical in west London ahead of a move on a four-year deal.

    Meghoma is a highly regarded young talent but had just one year left on his deal at St Mary's before agreeing on a move.

    He has made made four senior appearances in the cup competitions at Saints but is yet to play an English league match.

    Brentford, meanwhile, have selection problems at full-back with Scotland international Aaron Hickey ruled out for most of the season with a hamstring injury and Rico Henry having yet made his comeback from a serious knee injury.

  11. Cornet in talks to join Southamptonpublished at 12:20 30 August 2024

    Nizaar Kinsella
    BBC Sport football news reporter

    Maxwel CornetImage source, Getty Images

    West Ham forward Maxwel Cornet is in talks over a season-long loan move to Southampton, which would include an option to buy.

    The 27-year-old was subject to talks on Thursday as he looks to earn more consistent game time away from London Stadium and negotiations have continued into deadline day.

    The Ivorian's career has stalled since making the move to east London from Burnley in 2022.

  12. 'A big voice in a quiet group'published at 11:40 30 August 2024

    Aaron Ramsdale in training for ArsenalImage source, Getty Images

    Southampton manager Russell Martin says the signing of Aaron Ramsdale would "give everyone a lift" at the club.

    The 25 year-old's arrival from Arsenal seems to be imminent. The player could feature in Saturday's trip to Brentford if the signing is completed soon enough.

    "If it happens, it will be a huge signing for us," Martin said.

    "He's hungry to become England's number one again and he wants to be here. If you had asked me four of five weeks ago if we had a chance of signing him, I would have thought you were crazy.

    "We've spoke a fair bit over that period of time. I've pestered him a little bit! Even a week ago I would have thought it wasn't achievable but it's worth trying.

    "He's seen the way we've played in the first couple of games and I think he admires the courage of the players. I think he knows he has a chance to express himself.

    "He brings a big character and a big voice, which is something [we don't have]. We're quite a quiet group because we're a young group. I think he's going to be great.

    "Some of the guys might be surprised that he's coming. It will give everyone a lift."

  13. Martin on Ramsdale, McCarthy and Brentfordpublished at 09:40 30 August 2024

    Josh Lobley
    BBC Sport Researcher

    Southampton boss Russell Martin has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League trip to Brentford (kick-off 15:00 BST).

    Here are the key lines from his news conference:

    • On the potential signing of Aaron Ramsdale: "If it happens it will be a huge signing for us on and off the pitch. The hope is that he will be registered in time to be involved on Saturday. He brings a winning mentality and a big voice."

    • On Alex McCarthy, who is likely to be second choice if Ramsdale signs: "Alex has been amazing for us and I'll be forever grateful to him. I have no doubt he will be a brilliant team-mate. I love what he brings to the group and he's so calm. I want everyone to appreciate the job he did for us."

    • On other potential deadline-day business: "I hope so. There will maybe be one or two more [incomings], but it will also depend on people leaving the building."

    • On the biggest differences between the Championship and the Premier League: "The biggest difference is the athleticism and power of some individual players in the Premier League, especially at the top end of the pitch. They are hard to find, but they are everywhere in the Premier League."

    • On Saturday's opponents Brentford: "They have lots of threats. They have some real power and pace at the top of the pitch. They work really hard and they are evolving all the time. The way they do things is really engrained in that club and it runs throughout. It's going to be an interesting challenge for us."

    • On how the transfer window has gone so far: "The players we've added already and the one or two who may come in could be exciting for us. You can never get everything you want, but we've done good short-term business for the Premier League and outstanding medium-to-long term business. The club is in a really good place."

    Follow all of Friday's Premier League news conferences and the deadline day action

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  14. What needs to happen by deadline - the fans' verdictpublished at 07:41 30 August 2024

    Your views banner

    We asked what you have made of Southampton's transfer window so far, and what needs to be done on deadline day.

    Here are some of your comments:

    Ethan: We now have a reasonable goalkeeper but we still need the player which will score 20+ goals a season. We have signed Cameron Archer but even with him it is still not enough.

    David: A new striker please and James Ward-Prowse back (on a loan deal) to finally break Beckham's Premier League free-kick record and fire us to Premier League survival.

    Daz: Think Saints have filled what they need especially now with a proven keeper, now they just need to find the right formation to play and I think we will stand a good chance in the Premier League. Come on Martin, try that 4-4-2, you never know, it might just work.

    Tony: Buy a proven 25-goal per season striker, stop making chance/hopeful signings. We need goals to go with the possession.

    An image detailing how to follow your Premier League team on BBC Sport: "On the app? Tap the bell icon to get news about your club sent to you. Signed in on a browser? Hit 'Follow' to stay up to date.
  15. Follow all the drama unfold as the clock ticks downpublished at 07:03 30 August 2024

    Transfer deadline day graphic

    Here's all you need to know about transfer deadline day on Friday...

    When does the window close?

    The transfer window will close at 23:00 BST on Friday, 30 August for the Premier League, English Football League and Scotland.

    The date was brought forward by the domestic leagues to align with European leagues.

    Across Europe, the Bundesliga window will close at 19:00, Ligue 1 at 22:00, La Liga at 22:59 and Serie A at 23:00, but the Saudi Pro League transfer window remains open until 7 September.

    Can a Premier League player signed on deadline day play this weekend?

    Under league rules, new signings are eligible for the next Premier League game if the club submit the required documents by midday on the last working day before that match.

    So any player signed after 12:00 on deadline day would be unable to play in this round of Premier League fixtures.

    Where can I see all the confirmed transfer deals on deadline day?

    You can find all the deals completed on transfer deadline day within our dedicated confirmed transfers page.

    When does the January transfer window open?

    Clubs will be able to make transfers again from Wednesday, 1 January until Monday, 3 February at 23:00 GMT. This is the same in Germany, Italy, Spain and France.

    How can I follow transfer deadline day on the BBC?

    We have this live page dedicated to all the latest transfer news, reaction and analysis.

    You will also find regular updates on BBC Radio 5 Live and breaking news across BBC Sport's social media channels, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

    There will also be a special edition of The Football News Show on BBC iPlayer and the Red Button from 22:00 until 23:15.

  16. What transfer business is still needed?published at 12:53 29 August 2024

    Have your say banner

    The transfer deadline is almost upon us, so tell us what you've made of your club's business and if more is needed?

    Send your thoughts here, external

  17. Saints boss Martin makes up with ground staff after Cardiff soakingpublished at 11:43 29 August 2024

    Southampton head coach Russell Martin applaudsImage source, Getty Images

    Southampton head coach Russell Martin says he made up with Cardiff City's ground staff after being soaked by sprinklers during his visit to the home of the Bluebirds last season.

    The former Swansea City boss was twice sprayed by the Cardiff City Stadium's water sprinklers as he applauded Saints supporters prior to his side's 2-1 loss to Erol Bulut's men in April.

    However, ahead of Southampton's 5-3 Carabao Cup second-round win against the Bluebirds on Wednesday night, Martin met with Cardiff City's grounds manager Liam James who posted a picture of the pair on X, external.

    "I had a good chat with them (Cardiff's ground staff) before the game, we had a laugh about them soaking me last season and the guy owned up to it, finally," Martin jokingly said.

    "That's all I wanted, I just wanted him to own up and say that he meant it and that it wasn't a mistake.

    "It's all good. They've done a good job with the pitch, they're nice guys."

    Martin won all four of his south Wales derby matches as Swansea boss and became the first manager to oversee a league double between the sides during the 2021-22 season.

    But the 38-year-old said he was grateful for the welcome he received from club staff at Cardiff.

    "They (Cardiff's ground staff) know where my allegiance lies in south Wales," Martin added.

    "I watched the derby with a lot of eagerness on Sunday. I was really happy with the way the first half went but obviously it was a draw in the end.

    "I can't be too complimentary about the guys here because I love so many people a bit down the road.

    "I got a really nice welcome this evening from a lot of people, I'm grateful for that."

  18. Ramsdale signing shows 'the club is serious'published at 11:36 29 August 2024

    Aaron RamsdaleImage source, Getty Images

    Former Saints player Jo Tessem believes Aaron Ramsdale will be a "big signing" for the club as he looks set to join from Arsenal.

    Speaking on BBC Radio Solent's Goin' Home With Adam And Jo, Tessem said: "It will be a boost for the fans - they've been asking for this, they want a big signing to come in and Aaron Ramsdale in my eyes is.

    "He's an experienced Premier League player, and we have been crying out for a goalkeeper in terms of the way we are trying to play football. We need to have a perfect keeper and I think he will bring in experience and a little bit more safety for the back four.

    "I'm excited, I think this is a good signing and we are not just loaning him, we are signing him and that means the club are serious - I think that's what the fans want to see."

    They questioned whether it would cause issues if Ramsdale was to break the wage structure at the club, but Tessem said: "If a really good player comes in, you are more happy to have a good player because you know he is going to make you better as well.

    "There will be a few agents who will sit in the background and say 'well, you promised us there wouldn't be anyone going higher in wages' but from a players perspective you get a player with quality in and that will make you look better.

    "If I was in the dressing room, that would be the most important thing."

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