A number of Southampton fans have been reacting to comments from Ryan Bertrand as the left-back insisted that he wants to commit his long-term future to the Saints.
Bertrand’s current £70,000-a-week deal expires at the end of the season but there have been reports that Southampton want to tie him down to a new contract which will keep him at the club for the next few years. That could be vital with Ralph Hasenhuttl not having another left-back truly pushing for his place, although they have been linked with a move for Manchester United’s Brandon Williams.
Speaking to the Southern Daily Echo, Bertrand outlined his ambition to stay at St Mary’s and hopes the club can come to an agreement with him over the terms of a new contract, claiming that it isn’t “too far away” and is “in the club’s hands”. He said:
Definitely, I want to stay. That’s my thought process. I see myself staying here and it would be great to be part of this club for the long haul.
I’ve been here so long. I have still got plenty of years left in me. And to go beyond that and possibly work for the club even after football.
I’m fully focussed on hopefully extending my contract here.
The defender has been a major part of the Saints’ impressive season so far and has been as dependable as ever at the back to help them record four clean sheets in the Premier League (Sofascore). Bertrand’s experience in the dressing room is crucial for Southampton and it would be a massive loss were he to leave the club.
Saints fans react to Ryan Bertrand’s comments
Many Southampton fans were thrilled to hear Bertrand voice his desire to sign a new contract, with one calling him a “role model” for his commitment to the club, although some suggested that his comments could reveal potential stumbling blocks over the terms of any new deal.
Bertrand is a great player to have around. Has been a consistent performer and presence at the club, would be fantastic to see him extend his stay – bring more to the club than just performances. #saintsfc https://t.co/fpJJYtx0B8
— The Archers Road End | #LegacyFan (@ArchersRoadEnd) December 22, 2020
Give the man a fair contract to end his career here. A true ambassador, committed player, and next-level marketer. I see him starting for 2-3 more seasons, then moving to a Kelvin Davis type role to finish out.
— Nathan Hutchinson (@nathanhutch93) December 22, 2020
He’s been incredibly consistent and never once tried to jump ship when we began to struggle, you can tell he enjoys playing the club and the club need to offer him a deal good enough to keep him as he’s a good role model for the youngsters
— Dan (@DaddyDjenepo) December 22, 2020
fantastic news – he’s a switched on bloke who is no doubt a great influence on the younger lads
— Tom (@EastOffWeston) December 22, 2020
A great asset to the squad.
— Bassmaster (@bassmaster58) December 22, 2020
Bertrand wouldn't have spoken about his contract without hoping to gain something from it in the negotiations. He and Hasenhuttl have clashed in the past. Might not work out how he wants it to #saintsfc
— Joe (@floppy_donkeys) December 22, 2020
I would imagine he also wants more money than is currently on offer
— Richard Brereton (@RichardBrer) December 22, 2020
