SAINTS ALIVE – do they have a prayer this time?

Can Simon Parker’s wholesale changes at Southampton – including 10 new arrivals – give them a fresh start in WSL2, asks our writer, Izzy Gilligan.

Head Coach: Simon Parker stepped in this summer following Remi Allen’s departure midway through last season. A local product from Hedge End, Parker arrives from Blackburn Rovers, where he dealt with a turbulent setup and now takes charge of a club seen as more stable.

He has spoken openly about wanting to build a longer-term project rather than demanding immediate promotion, stressing the goal this year is to be competitive and avoid a repeat of last season’s struggles.

New signings: Amy Goddard, Emma Harries, Ruby Tucker, Mary Bashford, Ellie Brazil, Jess Simpson, Maria Edwards, Kiera Sena, Abbie Ferguson, Ellie Hack.

Outlook: The 2024-25 campaign started brightly for the Saints with wins against Sunderland, Sheffield United, and rivals local Portsmouth, but momentum quickly faded. A poor run around the turn of the year left the season “over by January,” with results not improving until April’s 3-2 victory at Bramall Lane. They ultimately finished eighth and will be looking to improve on that standing this season.

The summer has brought wholesale change, with Parker overseeing 10 new arrivals after the club lost many of their best academy products to WSL sides. Recruitment has focussed on players with experience in the league, bolstered by defender Amy Goddard, described as a towering presence at the back, and forward Maria Edwards, who scored eight goals last season and offers attacking versatility.

Early pre-season signs have been positive, with reports of a more direct, attacking style compared to last year’s low goal return.

Given the changes in the squad, this season is something of a leap into the unknown. Southampton are unlikely to compete with the financial power of those clubs backed by the money of Premier League teams, such as Newcastle, but if Parker can bed in his new-look team and keep them in the hunt for third place as long as possible, it will mark progress on last year’s disappointment.

Will finish: 6th

Photo: Southampton FC