Jack Stephens looked finished at Southampton. Not just out of the starting eleven, but drifting dangerously close to being dropped out of the squad altogether. His performances were often shaky, his confidence was low, and fans had lost patience.
For most of the season, the only moment that kept him relevant was that dramatic winner against Wrexham. It was important and emotional at the time, but it could not hide the wider issue. The captain was struggling; it felt like his time at St Mary’s was quietly running out.
Why Fratton Park was so important for Stephens
The turning point came in the Portsmouth game. In a tense derby, Stephens looked composed and assured. He played with the passion of a captain who knew what was at stake for the fans. FotMob rated him 7.1, a fair rating because he defended solidly and maintained his concentration even when his emotions ran high.
That performance alone did not save him, but it gave him a foothold, following a dogged, determined performance against Hull City the previous week.
Back to his best? pic.twitter.com/fWmGe24dkz
— Total Football Insight (@final_whistle1) February 8, 2026
What followed against Stoke City was even better. Stephens was outstanding, helping to earn an away clean sheet that Saints badly needed, and he looked like a different player altogether. He read the game well, won his duels, and defended with real conviction. His excellent sliding tackle on Sorba Thomas early in the match, as Stoke City threatened inside the penalty area, set the tone.
Sofascore handed him a 7.8 rating at the Bet365, which put him among the best players on the pitch. That was a reflection of how dominant and secure he had been from first whistle to the last.
The Watford game completed the turnaround. Saints needed control and calm against a lively attack, and Stephens delivered exactly that. Alongside Harwood-Bellis, he was composed in possession, and he organised those around him with the confidence of a captain playing at the top of his game.
His performance against the Hornets earned him a deserved man-of-the-match rating of 7.7 in a dour match only lit up by Cyle Larin's powerful diving header that won the match.
Cyle Larin scores with his first touch for Southampton. pic.twitter.com/9UzvLkXkeM
— Total Football Insight (@final_whistle1) February 7, 2026
From liability to leader in four matches
Across these four games, Stephens went from liability to leader. He went from being someone fans had vented their fury at during and after matches to someone they trusted. More importantly, he reminded the coaching staff why he has survived so many managerial changes.
This run has not just improved his form. It has saved his Southampton career.
Without these performances, it is easy to imagine Stephens slipping further down the pecking order. Instead, he has forced his way back into the team and made himself difficult to leave out.
Football careers can turn quickly. For Jack Stephens, four brilliant performances have changed everything.