VIEW FROM THE STANDS

Last season was a rollercoaster ride. We briefly led the top flight for the first time in more than 30 years, only to collapse in the new year and almost get sucked into a relegation battle. This season will be different to last because Saints should have a full squad, a proper pre- season and adequate players for back- up.

Instead of going to the football last season I increased the number of sports I now follow religiously, including revisiting my childhood love of Formula 1.

I won’t be happy unless we better last term’s league finish. A season without massive dips in form would be great, too. Our most underrated player is

Kyle Walker- Peters. There are a few candidates, but it’s evident how vital he is for Southampton as we soon fell apart without him.

Look out for Nathan Tella. He made regular outings last season, and it’s clear that Ralph Hasenhuttl likes his speed and energy. The pantomime villain will be VAR, again. I think there’s little to

no chance of our referees using common sense to improve it. The one change I’d make would

be getting new ownership. They don’t have to be billionaires, but it’d be nice if they cared about the club.

Our key player will be James Ward- Prowse. Whether Danny Ings stays or goes, it’s the captain who will galvanise Saints this campaign. The fans’ opinion of the gaffer is mixed, but generally poorer than it was this time last year after a bad 2021. I have faith in him, though.

We’ll finish 12th.