I loved Bale when he played for us. Everyone was banging on about Walcott, but it was obvious who was going to turn out better. EDIT - by everyone, I mean everyone who wasn't a Saints supporter.
An honourable mention for Wayne Bridge who was given his first senior England cap by Sven while a Southampton player, which took some doing in those days. Then he went to Chelsea to become Ashley Cole's understudy, and I'm sure would have got a lot more England caps but for that. We have been blessed with some great players in that position, including Graham Le Saux who doesn't appear on the list, who we got in exchange for Bridgey. Going back in time, Dennis Hollywood was pretty good, and all the others who have been mentioned. But my vote goes to a player whose career has been revitalised since he came to us: Ryan Bertrand.
Micky Adams was perhaps my favourite player when I first started watching Saints but I have to say Bridge. Bertrand will probably surpass him in time though. And Jeff Kenna was a right back.
Bale is obviously the most gifted, Bridge was very good, Bertrand is going to be a future legend but for me there is only one saints LB and that's Franny Benali. When the chips are down & or backs are to the wall he's the man you want in your team. Great man, although not really a great left back. He's in my team though.
Bridge while he was here. Bale for what he's gone on to achieve. Bertrand could surpass Bridge if he continues last season form. Loved Benali passionately but I think I surpassed his technical ability (although I was there when he scored!!)
If this is Southampton's greatest ever, it can't go to a player who only had one season (so far) - so surely Bale and Bertrand are out. Bale was incredible that one year but it isn't enough. I loved Benali but can't in all seriousness vote him a great player. Luke Shaw is not getting any vote, any time. So, for players in my time, it has to be Wayne Bridge.
Matty's own website describes himself as an attacking midfielder and there are PLENTY of candidates for the front two positions as well. The point is that a few favourites are going to be left out in an all time team selection.
Matty was what we'd probably term as a '10' these days. He was always best in a free role in the hole behind the striker/s. He was never really a midfielder, and never really a striker.
