Ivan Juric admits that the Southampton fans have presented a motivating reaction to the club's shameful relegation.
So, what was feared has finally happened as Southampton face a Championship drop following the recent Tottenham loss. Now, surely, everyone saw that coming, but the manner of the drop must've hit the Saints fans hard.
After all, with Ipswich losing to Wolves, and Southampton to Tottenham, the Saints have become the laughing stock, setting up the earliest Premier League relegation record.
Now, for a fanbase who despite being quite supportive has been too unpredictable at times, what do you expect for a reaction to such a relegation?
Definitely, not brilliant, right? But that's where the St. Mary's faithful fooled us all.
Interestingly, despite a 1-3 loss and a gutting relegation humiliation, Southampton supporters stood by the players in the moment. After the match, many could be seen waving, clapping, and applauding the players despite the crushing result.
Well, guess what, here not only us but boss Juric got tricked too, who expected a reaction completely opposite to what unfolded.
Juric caught off guard by fans' relegation reaction
As quoted by the Daily Echo, referencing Southampton fans, Juric admitted: "In my experience, it would have been a completely different reaction. They show love even in this moment. It's a great English culture, Southampton culture, incredible."
Now, some might argue the fans' warmth stemmed from the fact that the relegation wasn’t sealed at home, but even so, their reaction spoke volumes.
Impressively, not only would this motivate the club to push its limits in the upcoming Championship season, but this gesture would be a brilliant memory to those Saints who might leave this summer.
Well, that's what has made St. Mary's the home of one of the most loyal fanbases in European football. Let's hope Southampton's glory days arrive again, at least for these fans, who deserve it all.