Fair play to Tiss, I feel like he has been biting his tongue for a few months while we have been spouting our ill-informed opinions on here, he doesn't have that luxury.
He got the news at "his" academy on his phone. Ran over to the other coaches (incl. Benali) all enthusiastically then disappeared for 20minutes presumably banging on the phone.
Benali was at the Eastleigh Sports Awards with the Saints Foundation tonight, they said it was great to see/hear him. If anyone cares... probably not.
Francis Benali epitomised the Spirit of Southampton in his playing days. It is good to know he is back in the fold.
Quite frankly it would be nice for all previous club players to be given the recognition they deserve!!
Hopefully with KL in charge we will be more respectful of the clubs history and tradition with due acknowledgement for those who have played an important part in it
Either someone at the club 'informed' on Nicola leading to KL arriving to rein him in or people have taken the opportunity to have a moan the minute he's gone. Smart PR to correct negative things at the club which cost very little (players back in the fold, longer free parking, more info to fans). Even fans of NC (which most of us are) recognised his unpleasant foibles. Sometimes winning to Nicola was more important than common sense.
Great evening and Franny spoke from the heart about his commitment to sport. Non drinking, no smoking fitness fanatic whose determination more than made up for the fact that others were maybe more skilful than him. Still looks like he is fit enough to play anytmie he's called upon.
Fox out, Benali in? One calamatous full back at a time at least. I remember being a kid, all I cared about was the football. Like Jasper said, "more ****ing politics".
Saints' club historian has been informed today that the club have overturned Cortese's decision not to stock 'All the Saints' - the ultimate guide to every single player that has represented the club. Cortese had agreed to stock the book, but refused to stock the book at a later date due to the authors holding a signing session and evening with numerous ex-players, including Francis Benali and Matt Le Tissier. I know TSS and a couple of others have spoken glowingly of it, and it will be in the club shop before kick-off tomorrow.
Had to be one of Nicola's pettiest decision. I admired the man and was grateful for what he had done for Saints, but he could be a small man on occasions.
KL scarcely waited till Cortese's seat was cold. Some people at the club must have been talking in her ear...each little change is a subtle criticism of Nicola's style, though not of course of his achievements.
