Surprised they've done that. Why would they wanna pay the policing costs for a pre season match? There goes a big chunk of the money saved on Martin
I think this is going to be a fascinating week. Big question for me; if we're back on Wednesday, do we (essentially) waste time integrating the likes of Lavia (who we all know is going at some point this summer) into first team training under the new regime? Or are they better off staying away, and we can focus on those we know are staying?
I dont think we lose anything by having him be part of the group tbh, central mid is paper thin anyway at the moment so until we sign a replacement the players that are here probably don't suffer by having him around, I do get what you mean though. Besides in the 0.000001% chance that a proper move for him doesn't materialize for whatever reason then we need to have him integrated and ready to go for the season, same goes for JWP.
Keeping them away from the squad is basically removing all power we have from the negotiation table as we have committed to selling him
The friendlies are Reasding and Bournemouth will be fascinating for different reasons. For all Selles' bravado about hoping to find a post at a higher level club, his arrival at Reading will be interesting for Saints fans, most of whom will be expecting him to be under-whelming even at that level. I wish him well but cannot see him lasting the season if I am honest. As far as Bournemouth are concerned, I have a suspicion that they will be revitalised by the new manager. I do not know much about him although I think that Willo made some good points when inteviewed on Radio Solent last week. I have a gut feeling that he is going to be Bournemouth's answer to Poch. Bournenouth are probably worth a punt for surprise team of the season and maybe out to replicate Brighton's achievements last season. They will have a much better squad next season and not so dependent on Southampton cast offs! You would anticipate something special happening at Dean Court this season. Prediction : - Saints will spank Reading but expect us to be put to the sword against Bournemouth.
1. New manager and different style of playing at Bournemouth. 2. Selles being as clueless at Reading as he was at Southampton. Karma for Branfoot albeit 30 years too late!
Tickets for Reading v Saints friendly on Saturday 22nd July are on sale. Having said this, Reading FC have been issued with a winding up order by HMRC, over unpaid tax. So there may not be a team to play against, or a stadium available to play in.
