Southampton's past academy star Alfie Jones has opted to see out a move to Middlesbrough over Wrexham. Consequently, Southampton have become even huge favourites to defeat Wrexham and begin their Championship campaign in a statement delivering manner.
Ahead of the huge Championship build up, the predicted verdict about Leicester City and Southampton being the "teams to beat" is out. Indeed, other teams won't allow them much breathing room at the top end of the leaderboard but looks like their initial opponents may give them three points without much hassle.
By now, all Championship fans would agree that the Leicester City versus Sheffield Wednesday matchup is being as one-sided as it can be. Even a humiliation at the hands of the Foxes is gaining likelihood, and the Saints know Leicester City smash their opponents without caring about the lowdown on their rivals.
As for Southampton, their Wednesday meeting is still some way off and hardly one to circle on the calendar. Nevertheless, a first night's Wrexham win feels well within reach.
Alfie Jones will have Saints clapping for his loyalty
The reason being, Wrexham may tempt players from any English club but knowingly or unknowingly, former Saints are ignoring the chance to go toe-to-toe with their former club.
And the latest mention is Alfie Jones, who had every valid reason to showcase the St. Mary's what he could do in a Wrexham kit. An objective he couldn't achieve for the Saints first team.
Inspite of that, according to Hull Live, Alfie is inking his final transfer details with Middlesbrough, leaving Wrexham empty handed.
Will that impact their performance levels against the Saints? Not that much, but a minimal know-how is needed to destabilize league favourites.
Therefore, Jones taking a different route than what Wrexham thought he would prefer is equal to them being denied of an upset-pulling edge. If even after this, the visitors have the home fans fingers-crossed during the match, then it implies Southampton lack the domination demanded for a direct promotion.