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Weighing up the pros and cons of Jay Rodriguez leaving Southampton

By Ethan Evans

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 18: Jay Rodriguez of Southampton (C) celebrates scoring his sides second goal with Maya Yoshida of Southampton (R) during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Southampton at Vitality Stadium on December 18, 2016 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 18: Jay Rodriguez of Southampton (C) celebrates scoring his sides second goal with Maya Yoshida of Southampton (R) during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Southampton at Vitality Stadium on December 18, 2016 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) /
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SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 15: Jay Rodriguez of Southampton is congratulated by Shane Long after scoring their third during the UEFA Europa League Group K match between Southampton FC and AC Sparta Praha at St Mary’s Stadium on September 15, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 15: Jay Rodriguez of Southampton is congratulated by Shane Long after scoring their third during the UEFA Europa League Group K match between Southampton FC and AC Sparta Praha at St Mary’s Stadium on September 15, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) /

My Opinion

I believe that this move was a success and the correct one to make for all parties. We all want the hitman side of Jay back but the only way we could have accomplished that was to give him regular game time to recover. This was time we couldn’t have afforded to give, especially when his competition are Gabbiadini and Austin and the fact he is terribly injury prone.

Unlike many that have departed Saints, Rodriguez has not left on bad terms. His reasons for leaving Saints are totally justified and I commend him for that.

Ofcourse, there’s always the risk that he could do absolute wonders with the Baggies. But it’s a risk that not just we have to take, but Jay also.

Thank you Jay Rodriguez for being part of this clubs amazing journey. Thanks for moments such as your wonder goals against Fulham and the Cherries. For delivering us a memorable 2013/14 campaign. Thanks for wearing that crest and giving 110% even if your fitness was still a nuisance.

Thanks for everything and good luck.