Simon Rusk namedrops Ross Stewart as a sureshot signing at his next Championship managerial spell.
Days ago, Southampton fans arguably heard the boldest claim in a while. And why not? Given it forecasted Saints injury-prone forward Ross Stewart to lead the attacking department under Will Still next.
Turns out, that optimism wasn’t unfounded. That's because Stewart has begun his comeback after a 2-year flop spell.
Yesterday, on Southampton's ultimate matchday this season, Ross Stewart scored his inaugural first-team goal for the Saints. And what better in an occasion against Arsenal when upcoming boss Will Still was in attendance, too?
With the Saints trailing 1-0, Stewart powered a header past David Raya in the 56th minute to level it off. Though Southampton conceded a late goal, losing again, that brilliant Stewart finish gave flashes of what the fans can expect next season.
And for interim Simon Rusk, That single goal earned Stewart massive praise. In fact, in what was his last Saints game in charge, Rusk made an open claim that must elaborate on Stewart's importance at Southampton to the fans.
Rusk likes the idea of signing Ross Stewart in future managerial spells
As quoted by the Daily Echo, upon being asked if he will sign Stewart in his next Championship managerial spells, Rusk admitted: "Yeah, for sure. I think for him now, hopefully that's a platform that can build his confidence with his physicality and find a nice rhythm."
Honestly, while Saints supporters would take all the praise for Ross Stewart, truth be told, they won't want to leave him with Rusk now.
With the Saints club having made their best effort to depart Paul Onuachu, they must retain Stewart next. After all, for the forward who's at his best in a Southampton spell now, all fans eagerly await to see him in Still's system that will suit his strengths.
Well, just yesterday, Sunderland secured a Premier League return and their ex-forward Stewart scored the same day. Hopefully, it's more than a coincidence, that falls into Southampton's favour.