Dan Hargraves

Former Southampton manager Gordon Strachan says the club’s Spygate controversy will continue to attract attention until the team starts winning, but argues that the four-point deduction was excessive. He believes Southampton have enough experience and quality to challenge for promotion again, while saying manager Tonda Eckert and the club should receive a second chance if they show genuine remorse.

Southampton are reportedly considering a move for Estoril defensive midfielder Antef Tsoungui before the transfer window closes. The 23-year-old Belgian, who can also play at centre-back, previously spent time in Chelsea and Brighton’s youth systems and made one senior appearance for Brighton. ESPN reports that Southampton and Rangers view him as a target, with Estoril seeking €5–6 million. Southampton are looking for a replacement for Shea Charles, who recently joined Fulham for an initial £26 million plus up to £4 million in add-ons.

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert said his side deserved more than a 2-1 defeat at Watford but were punished for two first-half errors in possession. He praised the team’s second-half pressure, Cyle Larin’s goalscoring return and the squad’s unity, while confirming Finn Azaz should be ready to start next week. Eckert also discussed Lewis Dobbin’s positional flexibility, Southampton’s search for a replacement for Shea Charles, transfer interest in Taylor Harwood-Bellis and the club’s ongoing communication with the Football Association ahead of a hearing.

Southampton sporting director Tonda Eckert says it is natural for key players such as Taylor Harwood-Bellis to attract interest after reports that Benfica had a €20 million bid rejected. Harwood-Bellis remains committed to Southampton, where he has two years left on his contract and has made 134 appearances. Southampton are not expected to conduct extensive further business but intend to replace midfielder Shea Charles following his £30 million move to Fulham, while Divin Mubama's arrival on loan from Manchester City has eased concerns about the forward line.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert said Finn Azaz was not ready to start the 2-1 defeat at Watford but is expected to be fit to start the following week. Azaz, returning from an injury that kept him out of pre-season, made a positive impact after coming on in the 57th minute and had an effort narrowly miss. Eckert also explained Southampton's decision to use Lewis Dobbin on the left and Leo Scienza centrally, highlighting the attacking versatility available to the team.

Southampton FC lost 2–1 to Watford in their opening Championship match after first-half errors by Jack Stephens and Ryan Manning led to goals from Iker Bravo and Amin Nabizada. Cyle Larin reduced the deficit, and Southampton improved after the break, but further chances for Larin, Finn Azaz and Taylor Harwood-Bellis went unfinished. Head coach Tonda Eckert said his side deserved more but acknowledged that misplaced possession had proved costly; Southampton now have three successive home fixtures to recover.

Southampton have rejected Benfica’s opening €20 million (£17 million) bid for centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis. The defender, who made 48 appearances and scored seven goals last season, is regarded as one of Southampton’s key assets following their failure to win promotion. The club could consider an offer matching its valuation, while Benfica are preparing for a Europa League qualifying campaign under manager Marco Silva. Harwood-Bellis joined Southampton permanently after an initial loan from Manchester City and has since made 133 appearances and earned his first England cap.

Southampton are reportedly among the clubs interested in signing Feyenoord defender Anel Ahmedhodžić, with Fabrizio Romano saying the club has made initial contact. The 27-year-old Bosnia international previously spent three seasons at Sheffield United, making 114 appearances and helping them win promotion. Southampton may need another centre-back if Taylor Harwood-Bellis leaves amid reported interest from Benfica, although the club is hoping to retain him.

Southampton FC U21s opened their Premier League Cup campaign with a 4-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers. Princewill Ehibhatiomhan scored a first-half hat-trick and assisted Sufianu Dibaga for the fourth goal, while first-team goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale started and made one save. Southampton next face Truro City in the National League Cup before beginning their Premier League 2 campaign against West Ham United.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert said Caspar Jander is the club’s only injury concern ahead of the Championship opener at Watford. The midfielder has made steady progress and returned to the pitch, but Southampton will make a late decision on whether to select him or give him another week to recover. Eckert said the rest of the squad is in strong physical condition after a largely injury-free pre-season.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert said several English and German managers contacted him to offer support after the Spygate controversy. As he prepares to lead Southampton in a Championship match against Watford, Eckert described studying football rules and regulations while also speaking with experienced managers about the culture behind them, including figures from other sports.

Southampton defender Juan Larios is reportedly set to leave the club this summer, potentially on a free transfer. The 22-year-old joined from Manchester City in 2022 for a reported fee of about £6 million but has made only six first-team appearances, hindered by injuries and loan spells. He has been left out of the club’s pre-season plans and has not played in the Premier League since Southampton’s 2022/23 relegation campaign.

The Utilita Bowl will host a Celebration of Red Ball Cricket during Hampshire’s Rothesay County Championship match against Yorkshire from August 20 to 22. The event will combine live cricket with appearances and Q&As featuring former Hampshire players, heritage displays, a commemorative book, a digital stadium tour and opportunities to access the pitch. Under-16s will attend free, with family activities including an activity trail, fun zone, inflatables and children’s games.

Divin Mubama has joined Southampton FC from Manchester City on a season-long loan after spending the previous campaign at Stoke City. The 21-year-old striker says he is motivated to score goals, develop his game and repay the faith shown by head coach Tonda Eckert. He will compete with Cyle Larin for a place in the attack, following Ross Stewart's departure for Swansea City. Mubama could debut against Watford and says Southampton's clear objective is to win promotion.

Southampton will host West Ham United in the second round of the Carabao Cup during the week commencing August 24. Southampton secured its place with a 2-0 away win over Colchester United, while West Ham advanced after beating Portsmouth 3-1. The fixture could see former Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse return to St Mary's as an opposing player.

Southampton’s under-21s will begin their 2026/27 campaign with four consecutive away matches, starting against Truro City in the National League Cup. Their first home fixture is scheduled against Bournemouth on September 12. The team will also face Woking, Boston United and Sutton United in the National League Cup, while their Premier League 2 schedule includes matches against clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur. The top 16 Premier League 2 teams will qualify for the postseason play-offs; Premier League Cup and Premier League International Cup fixtures will be announced later.

Colchester United manager Danny Cowley described Southampton as a Premier League-level team after Southampton won their Carabao Cup match 2-0. Second-half goals from Cyle Larin and Romeo Akachukwu secured the victory, with Akachukwu scoring his first senior goal against his former loan club. Cowley also praised Southampton for loaning Akachukwu to Colchester without requiring the club to pay his salary.

Southampton are reportedly close to signing Manchester City striker Divin Mubama on a season-long loan. The 21-year-old scored five goals during a loan spell with Stoke City last season and has impressed for Manchester City in pre-season with two goals and an assist. Southampton consider adding a physical striker a priority after Ross Stewart left for Swansea City.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert says midfielder Caspar Jander is progressing well but will return gradually after suffering an injury in preseason. Jander missed the club’s training camp and the Carabao Cup win at Colchester, though he could be considered for the match against Watford. Southampton began the 2026/27 season with a 2-0 victory, with Cyle Larin and Romeo Akachukwu scoring in the second half, while Finn Azaz returned from injury and assisted Akachukwu.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert praised 20-year-old midfielder Romeo Akachukwu after he scored his first senior goal in a 2–0 Carabao Cup win at Colchester United. Akachukwu, who spent the second half of the previous season on loan at Colchester, impressed during pre-season and is now considered ready to compete for first-team minutes. Eckert has not yet decided whether he will retain the Irish midfielder or arrange another loan, saying the decision will depend on how Southampton’s squad develops and what best serves the player and club.

Southampton FC opened the 2026/27 season with a 2-0 away victory over League Two side Colchester United in the Carabao Cup first round. Substitute Cyle Larin broke the deadlock after returning to training, and Romeo Akachukwu sealed the win with his first senior goal. Colchester created early chances, but Southampton goalkeeper Daniel Peretz made a notable triple save, and Southampton will learn their second-round opponent before beginning their Championship campaign away at Watford.

Southampton academy winger Jay Robinson, 19, has joined newly promoted Serie A club AC Monza on loan for the 2026/27 season. Limited first-team opportunities at Southampton prompted the move, which sporting director Johannes Spors said would give Robinson more playing time, experience in a different country and exposure to a top-five European league. Monza manager and former Southampton boss Ivan Juric supported the deal after seeing Robinson in training, while Southampton said it expects the winger to return better equipped for his long-term career.

Southampton FC officials told the club’s annual fans’ forum that a striker will be signed before the transfer window closes, while the squad will otherwise be reduced and strengthened opportunistically. Chief executive Phil Parsons also revealed plans for major real-estate projects around St Mary’s Stadium, expected to be disclosed within 12 to 18 months. He defended the club’s limited communication during the Spygate legal process, and said Southampton is awaiting a timeline and eventual ruling from the Football Association on charges against head coach Tonda Eckert. Officials also discussed Ross Stewart’s departure and said no other specific position is currently a priority.

Southampton FC executives and coaches told supporters that the club remains united after the previous season’s Spygate controversy and disappointing campaign. The FA process is ongoing with no hearing date confirmed, while the club says it has reviewed the scouting incidents and implemented lessons learned. Southampton aims to return to the Premier League, reduce its oversized squad, strengthen the striker position and develop academy players. Officials defended increased season-ticket prices and outlined longer-term plans involving stadium-area development and improved revenue. Head coach Tonda Eckert expressed confidence in promotion, while sporting director Johannes Spors discussed player commitments, departures and potential transfers.

Seventeen-year-old Southampton defender Broghan Sewell has signed his first professional contract, agreeing to a three-year deal. The left-back joined Southampton from Chelsea in 2023, has made 48 appearances for the under-18s and debuted for the under-21s in Premier League 2. A Northern Ireland youth international, Sewell will continue developing at Southampton’s Staplewood academy while seeking greater involvement with Adam Lallana’s under-21 side.

Southampton FC Women will begin their Subway Players Cup campaign away against West Ham United on September 30. The regionalised group stage also includes Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Brighton & Hove Albion, with home matches against Crystal Palace, Leicester and Brighton scheduled at Eastleigh’s Silverlake Stadium. Southampton’s WSL2 season starts away at Durham on September 6.

Southampton FC are reportedly among the clubs showing concrete interest in 20-year-old Karlsruher SC striker Louey Ben Farhat. The Tunisia international scored six goals and supplied two assists in 20 2. Bundesliga appearances last season, but Karlsruher are seeking more than €10 million plus bonuses. Eintracht Frankfurt are reportedly leading the pursuit, with Bournemouth, RB Salzburg, Lille and Sunderland also linked. Southampton are seeking another forward after Ross Stewart’s expected move to Swansea City, despite securing Cyle Larin on a permanent deal.

Former Southampton striker Ross Stewart has completed a free transfer to Championship rivals Swansea City after leaving Southampton at the end of the previous season. The 30-year-old scored 11 goals in his best campaign for Saints, including goals against Arsenal and Middlesbrough, despite earlier injury problems. Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert praised Stewart’s effectiveness and indicated that a return had remained possible, but the transfer means Southampton must now focus on alternative striker targets before the September 1 transfer deadline.

Southampton FC are reportedly interested in signing AFC Bournemouth striker Daniel Jebbison. The 22-year-old attracted interest from several clubs after scoring six goals in 38 Championship appearances for Preston North End last season and impressing during Bournemouth’s pre-season. Southampton need a striker after failing to secure Ross Stewart on a new contract, while Jebbison’s potential lack of playing time under Bournemouth manager Marco Rose could influence his future.

Southampton enter the new season after a productive pre-season but still face five major questions. The Football Association has yet to rule on manager Tonda Eckert’s alleged breaches involving spying missions, while the club must reduce its oversized squad and decide whether returning loanees such as Aaron Ramsdale, Gavin Bazunu, Damion Downs and Ben Brereton Diaz fit its plans. Shea Charles appears likely to join Fulham, potentially creating a midfield vacancy, and Southampton also need a striker, a goalkeeper and replacements for any further departures. The article concludes that Lewis Dobbin and Finn Azaz should be capable of playing together, with Dobbin’s versatility offering tactical flexibility.

Southampton coach Tonda Eckert predicts that summer signing Lewis Dobbin will become a major player for the club. The 23-year-old forward scored three goals and provided an assist in four pre-season appearances after joining from Aston Villa for approximately £9 million, following a productive loan spell at Preston North End. Eckert also described Southampton’s pre-season performances as broadly positive while acknowledging areas requiring further review.

Southampton winger Jay Robinson is reportedly set to join Serie A club Monza on loan for the season. The 19-year-old made 28 appearances last season and scored against Ipswich Town and QPR, but his playing time fell sharply after January and he has featured sparingly in pre-season. Transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano says a deal has been agreed without a buy option, with Monza managed by former Southampton boss Ivan Juric.

Southampton defender Ryan Manning says the team must put last season’s playoff disappointment behind them and focus on securing promotion to the Premier League. Southampton, which assembled a 21-game unbeaten run late last season before being eliminated after a spying-related punishment, is using that experience as motivation. Manning highlighted the squad’s unity, productive preseason camp in Germany and his own desire to build on a season in which he recorded eight goals and seven assists. Southampton begins its competitive campaign against Colchester United in the Carabao Cup before opening its Championship season away to Watford.

Southampton captain Jack Stephens says the team is ready to pursue promotion after last season’s controversial Championship play-off final expulsion. He urges the squad to build on its 21-game unbeaten run while quickly overcoming a four-point deduction and making a strong start. Stephens praises the team’s Germany training camp, the retention of key players, new signing Lewis Dobbin and the academy prospects involved in pre-season, while also crediting manager Tonda Eckert with improving his defensive game.

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert says the club has made good progress toward another signing and hopes to announce an arrival soon, with a striker reportedly a priority after Ross Stewart’s departure. Southampton have already made several permanent signings and recruited Lewis Dobbin from Aston Villa. Stewart remains a possible re-signing, while Shea Charles, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Leo Scienza and Caspar Jander have attracted speculation. The club expects potential player sales to help offset the financial impact of missing out on Premier League promotion, although Eckert says he trusts the board and sporting director Johannes Spors to make the right decisions. Southampton begin their competitive season against Colchester United before opening their Championship campaign at Watford.

Southampton concluded pre-season with a 1-1 draw and a 2-1 win against Preussen Münster, giving most players a substantial increase in playing time ahead of the Carabao Cup. Head coach Tonda Eckert watched the second match from the stands to prepare for a possible touchline ban, while the Football Association's delayed disciplinary decision remains frustrating. New signing Lewis Dobbin emerged as the standout performer, scoring three goals and providing an assist in four matches. The squad remains oversized, making player departures a priority, but Southampton's players are highly motivated to challenge for promotion after last season's play-off final disappointment, despite starting the Championship campaign with a four-point deduction.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert says he is pleased with Ben Brereton Díaz's reintegration into the squad after his loan spell at Derby County. The forward has featured regularly in pre-season, including centrally against Preussen Münster, but Southampton are still expected to consider a transfer before the window closes, with Derby County and Sheffield United possible destinations. Díaz has made limited appearances for Southampton but has a strong Championship record, while the club prepares for its Carabao Cup and Championship campaigns.

Eastleigh have signed former Portsmouth and Barnet striker Oliver Hawkins on a permanent deal after he spent pre-season on trial with the club. The 34-year-old, who made 37 League Two appearances for Barnet last season and has nearly 300 Football League appearances, aims to stay fit, play regularly and help Eastleigh challenge for promotion in the National League.

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert watched the club's 2-1 pre-season win over Preussen Münster from the stands to prepare for a possible touchline ban. Assistant coach Ben Garner took his place on the touchline, while Leo Scienza and Lewis Dobbin scored for Southampton. The Football Association has yet to sanction Eckert and Southampton after they accepted charges of three breaches of Rule E3.1. Southampton will begin the 2026/27 season against Colchester United in the Carabao Cup before opening their Championship campaign against Watford.

Flynn Downes says Southampton FC's objective is to win the Championship and secure promotion after missing out in the previous season's play-off final. The midfielder believes the unbeaten run late last season brought the squad and staff closer together, and he expressed confidence after Southampton completed its pre-season preparations in Germany with a 2-1 win over Preußen Münster. Southampton will begin its competitive schedule against Colchester United in the Carabao Cup before opening its Championship campaign at Watford.

Southampton FC ended its pre-season preparations with a 2-1 victory over German third-division side Preussen Münster in front of 10,357 spectators. Felix Higl gave Münster the lead, but Leo Scienza equalised shortly afterward. Southampton controlled much of the remainder, creating several chances before Lewis Dobbin scored the winner in the 87th minute from a Kuryu Matsuki pass. The team will return to England ahead of its Carabao Cup first-round trip to Colchester United.

Southampton FC drew 1-1 with German third-division side Preussen Münster in a 70-minute closed-door friendly. Cameron Archer opened the scoring from close range, but Mikail Demirhan equalized before halftime. Southampton created further chances through Romeo Akachukwu and Ryan Manning, while Jack Stephens made a crucial goal-line clearance. The club planned a second, 90-minute match later the same day for players who had not featured.

Southampton midfielder Shea Charles missed the club’s friendly defeat to Paderborn because his minutes were being managed after he joined pre-season later than some teammates. Tonda Eckert confirmed Charles would play in one of Southampton’s two upcoming friendlies against Preussen Münster. Charles remains the subject of transfer speculation after a strong Championship season, with Southampton reportedly rejecting bids from Leeds United and Fulham; Manchester City would receive a 15% sell-on fee if he is sold.

Southampton FC Women have signed goalkeeper Grace Moloney from Sunderland and midfielder Laura Hughes from Melbourne City. Moloney, 33, brings more than 80 Women’s Super League appearances with Reading, while Hughes, 25, has represented Australia and Wales and helped Melbourne City win three consecutive regular-season titles before securing an A-League Grand Final victory. Hughes said she was eager to take on the challenge of playing in England.

Sports reporter Dan Hargraves travels from London via Düsseldorf to Dortmund to cover Southampton FC’s German pre-season camp. He describes the smooth journey, working from a McDonald’s, exploring Dortmund and running to Signal Iduna Park, the home of Borussia Dortmund. He plans to visit the German Football Museum and attend Southampton’s training base the following day to gain insight into Tonda Eckert’s work with the players.

Southampton captain Jack Stephens says the squad is determined to secure promotion to the Premier League after being expelled from last season's play-off final amid the spying scandal. The club will begin its Championship campaign with a four-point deduction while head coach Tonda Eckert awaits a final punishment. Stephens praised the players, staff, owner and supporters for their unity and said Southampton must start strongly to build momentum, despite expecting hostility at away grounds.

Eastleigh have signed 20-year-old Sheffield Wednesday left-back Reece Johnson on a season-long loan. Johnson, who made 12 Championship appearances and played 16 matches across all competitions last season, said he is eager to continue his development in the National League. He described his attacking style and said his first-team experience at Sheffield Wednesday was highly valuable. Eastleigh will begin their league campaign at home against Gateshead.

Southampton lost 2-1 to SC Paderborn in a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly despite taking an early lead through Lewis Dobbin. Dobbin's continued scoring form was the main positive, while goalkeeper Daniel Peretz completed the full match and academy forward Jay Robinson returned for 45 minutes. Damion Downs suffered a late first-half injury, adding to concerns over Southampton's limited striker options. Several players, including Shea Charles, Tom Fellows, Aaron Ramsdale and Gavin Bazunu, were absent, though Charles's omission was reportedly unrelated to transfer speculation.

Southampton Women have signed 21-year-old attacking midfielder Libbi McInnes from WSL2 rivals Sunderland. The academy graduate made 74 appearances for Sunderland and won three club awards during the 2024/25 season. McInnes said she was ready for a new challenge and looked forward to contributing in attack and defensively. Her arrival follows Southampton's signing of New Zealand goalkeeper Alina Santos, with the new WSL2 season due to begin on September 4.

Southampton forward Ben Brereton Diaz is reportedly attracting interest from Championship rival Sheffield United. The 27-year-old has returned to Southampton after a loan spell at Derby County and played in a preseason friendly, but his future at the club remains uncertain. Sheffield United, where he previously had two loan spells, are reportedly considering an approach. Brereton Diaz has made 15 appearances without scoring since joining Southampton from Villarreal, while recording 64 goals and 26 assists in 270 Championship appearances.

Southampton goalkeeper Daniel Peretz said rejoining the club permanently from Bayern Munich was an easy decision after a successful loan spell. The Israeli international kept nine clean sheets in 26 appearances and signed a four-year contract for a fee of about €7 million despite Southampton's failure to win promotion and their removal from the play-off final. Peretz has taken the number one shirt, helped Southampton beat Eintracht Braunschweig in a friendly and is focused on preparing for the new season, which begins with a Carabao Cup tie at Colchester United before the Championship campaign at Watford. Southampton will start the league season with a four-point deduction.

Southampton forwards Cyle Larin and Cameron Archer are joint-11th favourites at 25/1 in Betfair’s early 2026/27 Championship Golden Boot odds. West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen leads at 6/1, followed by Raul Jiménez at 7/1, while last season’s winner Zan Vipotnik is priced at 14/1. Larin is returning to Southampton after scoring eight goals on loan and signing permanently, whereas Archer’s future is less certain amid reported interest from West Brom, despite his strong previous Championship record with Middlesbrough.

Dan Hargraves recounts his 36-hour journey from England to Germany to cover Southampton’s pre-season friendly against Eintracht Braunschweig. He describes travelling through Stansted and Bremen, exploring Braunschweig, meeting Southampton supporters and reporting from the Eintracht Stadion. Southampton won 1–0 through Damion Downs, with around 50 travelling fans attending, and the players and staff thanked them after the match. Hargraves returned via Bremen and expects to continue covering Southampton’s German trip.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert acknowledged clear interest in midfielder Shea Charles but said decisions over a potential sale rest with sporting director Johannes Spors. Fulham reportedly had a £24 million bid rejected after Leeds United saw multiple offers turned down, while Southampton are believed to want around £30 million. Charles remains highly valued after scoring important goals last season and has impressed during pre-season, although he has only one year left on his contract with an extension option. Manchester City could receive 15 percent of any future transfer fee.

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert says his squad will receive more than enough playing time during pre-season to prepare for the 2026/27 campaign. Southampton defeated Eintracht Braunschweig 1–0, following a 3–1 win over Eastleigh, with Damion Downs scoring after an assist from Lewis Dobbin and Flynn Downes. The team will continue a Germany training camp with two more friendlies before facing Colchester United in the Carabao Cup and Watford in the league.

Southampton defeated German second-division side Eintracht Braunschweig 1–0 in their second pre-season match. Damion Downs scored after 35 minutes following a move involving Flynn Downes and Lewis Dobbin. Southampton rotated two starting XIs, giving 22 of the 29 players at their Germany training camp 45 minutes, while Cameron Archer and Romeo Akachukwu came close to extending the lead. The team will continue training in Germany before facing Preußen Münster on August 1.

Eastleigh lost 3-0 to French side Valenciennes in a pre-season friendly at the Silverlake Stadium, conceding goals to Rouai Mabrouk and Vincent Marcel, whose brace highlighted the visitors’ superior quality. Eastleigh created several chances but were unable to capitalise, with key defensive interventions preventing earlier setbacks. Sport Republic executives were in attendance, and Eastleigh now prepare to face Crawley Town in their next warm‑up match.

Franny Benali appears in a Southampton FC media video unveiling the club’s 2026/27 home shirt, featuring P&O Cruises as the front‑of‑shirt sponsor for the second season. Filmed at notable Southampton locations, Benali reflects on his connection to the city and praises the partnership with the cruise line. The new kit is now available for purchase online and in stores.

Hampshire opened their One Day Cup campaign with a 50‑run victory over Yorkshire after defending a target of 321 in Scarborough. Tom Prest led with a rapid century, while debutant Ashutosh Sharma took three wickets, including two in one over. Prest highlighted the team’s resilience, praising contributions from several teammates and noting the importance of key wickets during the middle overs. He expressed optimism about pushing further in the competition after recent near misses in past finals.

Southampton is hosting fellow Sport Republic-owned club Valenciennes for a training camp, with the French side set to face Eastleigh in a friendly. The piece outlines the ownership links between the clubs and recent transfer movements involving Joachim Kayi Sanda, Daouda Traore and Derrick Abu, while noting Valenciennes’ recent league performance and Sport Republic’s broader portfolio.

Reports indicate that Southampton-linked striker Will Lankshear is in advanced talks over a permanent move from Tottenham Hotspur to Middlesbrough after scoring 11 goals on loan at Oxford United. Southampton previously made an approach for the 21-year-old but were turned down as the club continues to prioritize signing a striker following failed contract discussions with Ross Stewart. Head coach Tonda Eckert has kept open the possibility of Stewart returning while emphasizing the need for an additional forward.

Prince William issued a personal message expressing sadness over the death of former Southampton and England footballer Kevin Keegan, praising his talent, passion and kindness. Keegan, who played for Southampton from 1980 to 1982 and was a two‑time Ballon d'Or winner, is remembered for an exceptional career as both player and manager. Tributes are extended to his family and those who knew him.

Mick Channon pays tribute to former Southampton and England teammate Kevin Keegan, reflecting on their close friendship, shared experiences in football and horse racing, and Keegan’s humility despite his high profile. Channon describes Keegan as a generous and people‑focused figure who remained grounded throughout his career, recalling their time together at Southampton and Keegan’s later role as England manager. He expresses sadness at Keegan’s death and remembers him fondly as a great human being and close friend.

Jim McCalliog pays tribute to Kevin Keegan following the former Southampton and England star’s death, recalling Keegan’s strength, dedication and impact at club and international level. He highlights Keegan’s influence on young players, the significance of his move to Southampton, and his enduring legacy in football while offering condolences to his family.

Hampshire signed Indian all-rounder Ashutosh Sharma for the Metro Bank One-Day Cup, noting his strong recent performances with Delhi Capitals in the IPL and his record-setting T20 half‑century. Director of Cricket Giles White praised Sharma’s potential and welcomed his addition as the team aims to improve on last year’s tournament result.

Southampton Women scheduled a pre-season friendly against Celtic Women on August 2 at Snows Stadium, with tickets now on sale. The team recently began pre-season testing and training, while players Milly Mott and Rachel Brown renewed one-year contracts ahead of the upcoming WSL2 campaign.

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert confirmed that Mads Roerslev will make his first appearance in eight months during the pre-season friendly at Eastleigh, playing only 30 minutes as he returns from Achilles surgery. Eckert plans to field two separate XIs for the match, with Roerslev the lone exception. He emphasized the player’s strong training performances and renewed enthusiasm after a long injury layoff. Southampton will play only this one home-soil friendly before traveling to Germany for additional preseason matches against Eintracht Braunschweig and Preußen Münster, ahead of further fixtures including a Carabao Cup tie at Colchester United. Eckert highlighted the importance of showing readiness to supporters in a rare home-friendly opportunity.

Liam Dawson’s release from England duty strengthens Hampshire ahead of T20 Blast Finals Day, where they face Notts Outlaws for a place in the final. Recent strong performances, including a century from James Vince and a five‑wicket haul from Sonny Baker, boost confidence as Tristan Stubbs also returns to the squad.

Southampton fans are offered a limited‑time Daily Echo digital subscription deal of £6 for six months or 50 percent off an annual plan. The promotion highlights benefits including unlimited article access, fewer ads, an ad‑free app, reader rewards, and access to digital editions. The Echo emphasizes its ongoing coverage of Southampton FC’s pre‑season and upcoming matches, encouraging new readers to subscribe while noting additional rewards available to existing subscribers.

Southampton forward Leo Scienza is attracting interest from clubs in Italy, Spain and the Premier League after a strong season marked by seven goals and ten assists. Southampton hope to keep him and are expected to demand a substantial offer, as shown by their earlier rejection of bids for Shea Charles.

Lewis Dobbin joins Southampton on a four‑year deal after a strong Championship season with Preston, noting that facing Southampton last year convinced him the club suited his playing style. He praised the team’s quality, the transformation under manager Tonda Eckert, and the detailed discussions about how he would fit into the squad. Dobbin highlighted his versatility across the front line and aims to contribute goals and creativity as Southampton target a successful campaign and a return to the Premier League.

A Southampton supporter, Craig Sturgess, is travelling across North America following England’s World Cup campaign, attending every match and meeting former players along the way. His favourite experience came during England’s win over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, where he praised the hospitality of local fans. After briefly returning home following his father’s death, he rejoined the tournament journey and believes England have a strong chance of winning despite not yet playing at their full potential.

Southampton strengthened their attack with the signing of Lewis Dobbin, adding versatility ahead of pre-season. Squad evaluations highlight stability in defence and midfield but note potential departures, including Shea Charles and Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Goalkeeper decisions remain unresolved as several players may leave, while competition increases in wide and attacking roles. Cyle Larin leads the striker options after returning permanently, though further additions may be needed if exits occur.

Cuco Martina reflects on his two-year spell at Southampton, recounting his surprise Premier League breakthrough, his famous goal against Arsenal, and his role in the club’s successful 2015–16 campaign. He describes adapting to English football, seizing his chance after a difficult start, and experiencing major fixtures including Europa League matches against Inter Milan. Now focused on fatherhood, he expresses deep pride in seeing Curaçao reach its first World Cup, viewing the achievement as the culmination of a long journey for his national team.

Planning permission has been approved for a new padel centre at Sholing FC’s Mackoy Stadium, featuring six covered championship-standard courts, a Pilates studio, changing facilities and a café. The club described the approval as a major step in its long‑term development plans. The project comes amid rising interest in padel across the UK, as Sholing prepare for the upcoming Southern League Premier South season after finishing sixth last year.

Southampton confirmed two pre-season friendlies during their training camp in Germany, facing Eintracht Braunschweig on July 24 and SC Preußen Münster on August 1, with supporters able to attend both matches. Players have returned for testing and training at Staplewood, though Shea Charles and Cyle Larin are absent due to extended breaks after international duty. Their first pre-season match will be away to Eastleigh on July 18.

Mads Roerslev reports full recovery from an Achilles injury after a limited first season with Southampton, returning to pre‑season training feeling ready to play. Several teammates were absent due to international commitments, while new and returning players shared positive impressions of the start of pre‑season. The squad is set to continue preparations under head coach Tonda Eckert.

The EFL appointed Yasmin Diamond as an independent non-executive director ahead of the 2026–27 season, highlighting her extensive governance and leadership experience from roles including her tenure at the Rugby Football Union. The league emphasised the value she will bring to its operations and clubs. Southampton will begin their upcoming Championship campaign away at Watford on August 16.

A second group of Southampton players reported for pre-season testing at Solent University, including recently signed goalkeepers Daniel Peretz and George Long. Several returning loanees and recovering players were also present, while others are expected later due to international commitments. The team prepares for upcoming friendlies and early competitive fixtures, including matches against Eastleigh, Colchester United and Watford.

Southern Brave appointed Chris Jordan and Sophie Molineux as captains for their men’s and women’s squads for the 2026 edition of The Hundred. Jordan continues his long association with the team, while Molineux brings significant international leadership experience. The competition begins on July 22, with Southern Brave set for several home fixtures at the Utilita Bowl. The Hundred enters its sixth season, featuring a 100-ball format with linked men's and women’s fixtures and a final scheduled for August 16.