Josh Sims could be heading to New York Red Bulls on loan, according to recent reports, and it’s a move that has left a lot of Saints fans surprised.
The winger was only utilised by Ralph Hasenhuttl sporadically in the second half of last season, but after making a decent impression, it seems he will be sent out temporarily again.
Moussa Djenepo’s arrival and Sofiane Boufal’s return appear to have left Sims with little choice but to seek first-team football elsewhere this term.
Despite this, though, a possible move to the United States was hardly expected, and some Saints fans appear to be torn on whether this is good business or not…
Twitter: Josh Sims to NY Red Bulls might actually convince me to go to a MLS game. #saintsfc (@EFranzo17)
Twitter: Getting rid of Sims is another calamitous move from #saintsfc but I just give up caring anymore. (@robIacey)
Twitter: Fantastic move for Sims going to the MLS, it’s going to be a great experience for him out there #SaintsFC (@leemyersSfc)
Twitter: Josh Sims heading to New York Red Bulls is…. Random #saintsfc (@JordanStevens92)
Twitter: What a pointless, random transfer it would be for Josh Sims. Really thought he had enough to make it under Ralph. N… https://t.co/vTPpu4be57 (@dettmer93)
Read Southampton’s verdict
It’s certainly a peculiar move for Sims. He deserves to be playing regular football, and it is pleasing that this is likely to happen in the coming months. Although, whether or not New York is the right destination for his development is uncertain.
He showed signs of promise for us last season but doesn’t appear to be in Ralph Hasenhuttl’s plans, which is a shame, but also understandable given the quality of options in the wide attacking berths.
Hopefully, if the reports are indeed correct, Sims will show his ability for the MLS outfit and return to Southampton a much-improved player.
