Liverpool icon Andy Robertson's glowing progress review on Max Johnston must motivate Southampton to come back stronger in their attempt to convince the latter.
Since the beginning of June, Max Johnston coming to St. Mary's has felt like a pipe dream. Southampton want to sign him, he will be handed Championship duties from the start but somehow the 22-year-old isn't sold on the move solely due to the club's fallen Premier League pride.
And to rub more salt to the wounds, Johnston can have his wishes fulfilled while the Saints are unlikely.
Well, think about it, potentially two praiseworthy Scottish targets slipping away from Southampton's grasp when they were the first-comers, isn't it too shambolic to bow down to competitors without resisting?
Let's be honest, the Saints need to shift gears during the window's second leg. And should they still feel like sitting on the signing fence, Liverpool legend Andy Robertson has come forward to motivate them about Johnston's transfer battle.
Robertson hints Johnston could be the next big name in English football
As quoted by the EFL Analysis, Robertson highlighted Johnston's progress saying: "Max Johnston has come on so much since his first camp here. Now, he looks a hell of a lot more composed. He's filled out a bit. Defensively, he looks excellent in training."
Well, praising teammates is often a commonplace gesture in football but Robertson's comments can be a transfer vouching too. Especially, when knowing Liverpool's warm transfer relations with Southampton over the years.
Many boyhood Saints have traded the red and white kit for Liverpool's red with brilliant results, thus, Robertson might be wishing for his younger compatriot to follow suit as well.
Firstly, become a regular mainstay at Southampton and then someday consider boosting the Reds' Premier League charge.
For the Saints, getting a fullback transfer assurance from one of the modern day Premier League greats is a big reason in itself to continue their Johnston pursuit. If they win, better if not, they know which right-back profiles they need to chase in the future.