Whatever tier Southampton plays in, they have received a strong recommendation to sign Ryan Fraser, a winger for Newcastle United, this summer. The Saints defeated West Brom 2-0 on Friday night, moving them up to third place in the standings.
In that game, Fraser scored his eighth goal of the year, capping off a corner routine that had striking similarities to Newcastle United’s last-week performance against Nottingham Forest, from which they also scored. Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, veteran Southampton midfielder Jo Tessem expressed his belief that the team should make every effort to entice Fraser—who moved to St Mary’s Stadium on loan earlier this season—back to the south coast when his loan period expires. Fraser has shown promise for Russell Martin’s team.
Tessem stated: “He is a very good football player who is quick and finds a great position in there, which causes problems.” And he possesses the one quality that a winger needs: a tonne of pace. He has been out for a while, is still hungry, and I believe that being here will help him grow a little bit.
He has Premier League quality, and when he reaches his peak, it is quite near, so returning to the Premier League with Southampton and starting over would be absolutely amazing for him. I believe he still has a lot to offer, therefore whatever happens, we should contract him for the upcoming season.
Fraser has already made insinuations that he believes his future lies outside of St. James’ Park following Eddie Howe’s exclusion from first-team decisions. Since Newcastle’s victory against Everton in October 2022, the Scottish international has not appeared on the pitch and he has stated he does not see a path back into Howe’s plans.
I believe that my time at Newcastle is now over.” Fraser stated to the Daily Echo. “If there is a possibility that you will return, I don’t think you should be placed on loan. As everyone has witnessed, the second part of the last season was difficult.
“My goal in coming here was to support the squad in whatever way I could. That has been making an effect in games after coming off the bench. Assisting the team feels so wonderful.
