As Hull City’s relegation fate was confirmed on Sunday, I’ve take a look at potential players that Saints could sign from the three clubs destined for the Championship.
Bottom side Sunderland, who never really got going this campaign, were relegated at the hands of Bournemouth three weeks ago thanks to a late Josh King strike, which once again heaped speculation on David Moyes’ future at the club. The defeat ended the Black Cats’ ten-year stay in the top flight, with the club in a mess both on the pitch and off it.
Middlesbrough return to the Championship having only been promoted from the second tier of English Football last season. They had their rare moments, noticeably giving Manchester City a run for their money in a 2-2 draw at the Riverside. Their fate was decided when they lost 3-0 to now-champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last Monday.
Hull City gave a much better account for themselves in the race for survival. The Tigers looked the most likely side to stay up however like Middlesbrough, they return to the Championship next season. Winning their opening two games against Leicester City and Swansea City, they found themselves top of the Premier League for a day. But they couldn’t keep up this form and their survival hopes were dashed in a 4-0 drubbing by Crystal Palace on Sunday, confirming their relegation. Their highlight of the season was undoubtedly their 2-0 victory over Liverpool at the KCOM Stadium back in February, with goals from Alfred N’Diaye and Oumar Niasse proving too much for Jurgen Klopp’s men.
All of these teams have had some stand-out players this, but would any of them fit in at Southampton? I’ve taken a look at those Saints should consider signing this summer.
