Southampton's former academy gem Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is lined up for an English homecoming but at Southampton's Championship rivals Leicester City.
While leaving St. Mary's, many top prospects dream of scripting some memorable moments in their playing career. Especially, the early twenty-ish age academy gems who come to terms with the harsh truth that those trophy-laden scenes or even big game finals rarely come to fruition at Southampton.
Thus, those boyhood Saints who improve their silverware cabinets later on, often become household names in English football. And one such "no introduction needed" guy is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Currently, it's been nearly fifteen years since he bid farewell to Southampton's renowned youth academy but a slight mention is enough for the fans to still cherish his young Saints days with fondness.
One of the typical player-fan relations which is a wonderful sight to behold. However, there might be animosity among certain sections of the Southampton fanbase the next time Alex takes on the St. Mary's ground.
Oxlade-Chamberlain risks upsetting Saints by siding with rivals
That's because a recent report from Fotomac indicates that Alex could be set to return to English football but donning the colors of Southampton's direct rivals Leicester City.
There is no denying that Alex enjoys a strong Champions League reputation but shaking the hands of promotion rivals will certainly raise eyebrows. After all, the Saints expect their former players to stay at an arm's length from the club's on-field rivals, barring charity games of course.
Regardless, the player in question isn't on Southampton's books, thus, nothing can be done to avoid this move. The same goes true for expecting any apology comments, too, in case some Saints fans desire.
Finally, let's hope Alex prefers a Premier League move in the short term if he indeed craves a return back home.