Southampton fans may have a hard time counting the number of ex-Saints lining up for West Brom.
Although Southampton have been paired with Wrexham to kickstart the opening Championship matchday, it's no secret that the Saints aren't as over the moon with this draw as their Welsh counterparts. Honestly, it's totally understandable because no game betters the Portsmouth fixture and the Saints need no reminding to mark those two evenings in their calendar.
However, there is another set of much anticipated matchups with West Brom and the plain reason is not due to claiming any lost bragging rights on offer. Further, those meetings may not be a promotion six-pointer yet the way the transfers build up is shaping up, they can be no less than pride-winning battles.
And it all started with the Lawrence Shankland efforts where West Brom drove the 29-year-old's market interest to a point where Saudi Pro League clubs will dictate where his immediate future lies.
Angus Gunn and David Brooks can cross paths as ex-Saints
Following this no-winner scenario, West Brom started toying with the idea of adding St. Mary's favourite David Brooks to their books. Now, the Saints fanbase might have let that one slip under the radar but their next former player raid will at least fetch puzzled reactions over this repetitive transfer involvements.
According to a report from the EFL Analysis, the Baggies are recommended to thrash fresh contract terms with forgotten ex-shot stopper Angus Gunn.
Certainly, it can't be a coincidence that one team keeps relying on their rivals' past additions for their roster requirements. Agreed, there's nothing wrong with it but going at this pace, the St. Mary's might start getting nostalgic when they get the West Brom hosting duties.
Less than half a year ago, they wished to see Armstrong in the Baggies colours permanently but football gods are meeting their wishes in a different way.
Therefore, be careful what you crave for Southampton fans as there might be a vague scenario of them hiring an ex-Saints coach during the season, who knows?