It appears Southampton will have to get used to life without Che Adams as his contract expires in the summer.
Adams looks to have chosen not to extend his contract at St Mary’s, as he is being linked to a move to the Premier League today.
Following nearly five years on the South Coast, the Scotland international has made 180 appearances and scored just under fifty goals. Now, he is ready to say goodbye.
What better way to leave the Saints than a promotion medal, as there are only 10 games left in the season and it’s likely the last the supporters will see of him?
Normally, Southampton would have to search the transfer market for a replacement, but the perfect successor is already in the wings.
Ross Stewart might take Che Adams’ place.
Last summer, the South Coasters paid an initial £8 million plus an additional £4 million for Ross Stewart, who left Sunderland after 40 goals in 80 games.
The 27-year-old arrived full of potential, and Southampton’s addition was seen as a true statement at the time.
Speaking in September, director of football Jason Wilcox expressed his happiness with Ross’s signing, saying, We’re delighted to have added him to the group. He’s a really dynamic and intelligent player.
Over the last few seasons, he has shown very impressive form and development, and we are confident that this will be a great place to continue that.
We think he’ll be a very well-liked addition and a terrific fit for us because he has a fantastic work-rate and a great character.
Unfortunately, Stewart has been limited to just two Championship appearances this season due to injuries, as he experienced last season as well.
Although it is unlikely that he will make a comeback before the season ends, Saints supporters may witness him play again in the preseason.
If he stays healthy during the summer and improves in the friendlies, Russell Martin will have an Adams stand-in for the upcoming campaign.
In many aspects, he might even be an improvement over Adams if he can regain the form he displayed at Sunderland.
Comparing Ross Stewart to Che Adams
Although Stewart has undoubtedly played at a lower level than Adams, he still boasts a far superior goals-per-game ratio. The 6’2′′ centre striker scores one per 2.69 games, whereas Adams scores once every 3.7.
Although Adams’ skill set consists of much more than just goal scoring, it’s still an intriguing analogy to draw.
Stewart would not be able to operate on the flanks like the former Birmingham City forward can in a Russell Martin system.
Thus, it would seem that the Saints would be better off searching for a more adaptable forward with left winger expertise if they decide to enter the market to replace Adams.
Stewart has had a difficult journey thus far, but with the preseason drawing nigh and Adams leaving, everything is in place for him to succeed in August.
