Ralph Hasenhuttl has ruled out the possibility of Fraser Forster’s loan spell at Celtic being cut short in January.
The goalkeeper has been in fine form for the Hoops this season, while Saints have encountered some troubles of their own between the sticks.
Angus Gunn and Alex McCarthy have both featured for the club so far this season, but neither have wholly convinced as the halfway stage of the campaign edges nearer.
Hasenhuttl was asked about whether or not there are plans for Forster to return in January but was quick to dismiss this as a solution.
As quoted by Sky Sports, he said:
I am very happy that after his long time without playing that he gets the chance to play there.
He is a fantastic goalkeeper – I always knew. But for him, it was important to get the chance to play, get the games and the self-confidence back. I am very happy for him.
We have our three goalkeepers here. He is on loan until the end of the season and it is not the moment to think about that.
Read Southampton’s verdict
Forster is having a really good season and seems happier than he has been for some time. It would be for the best that he continues to build his confidence back up at Celtic.
McCarthy is a decent goalkeeper, and although he has his faults, he should be more than good enough to help Saints, not hinder them, as they push for Premier League survival.
If Forster can continue to impress in Scotland, perhaps he will either have a future back at St Mary’s, or he will be sold for a significant fee. Either way, his form is good news for everyone.
