Tony Pulis warns Southampton of Ipswich Town's Championship promotion push next season, as they look more stable than the Saints.
Let's accept it, at least once, we have all raised eyebrows at the Top Flight's relegation system. After all, isn't it intriguing how, despite quite varied finishes at times, all demoted clubs get a similar fresh slate?
But, talking of Southampton, this system has benefited Southampton before and again, as they are to finish at the bottom for the second time in the last three seasons.
Still, while alike Ipswich and Leicester, the Saints begin the next Championship season from the same baseline, it's not hidden that they lag behind the two, in reality.
And what may surprise one is that it's been for broader reasons than their consistently poor performances.
Now, except for their latest loss, Southampton have turned up well against Ipswich and Leicester. Yet where they do lack by a margin, compared to the other two, especially Ipswich, has been in squad stability.
Just see, how within a single season, Southampton has changed managers three times, while Ipswich, despite demotion, have stuck with manager Kieran McKenna.
Well, while this factor may not sound boastingly significant, it presents Ipswich as a better promotion candidate next season. At least, that's what veteran manager Tony Pulis agrees to.
Pulis considers Ipswich promotion favorites above Southampton
Recently, speaking to the Daily Echo, Pulis evaluated the next season's promotion scenario, commenting: "I think out of the teams going down, Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich, I think Ipswich are most prepared squad-wise to compete in the Championship."
Well, that's why, despite commanding an advantage over Ipswich this season, the Tractor Boys can repeat securing a more comfortable promotion than Southampton.
And if by now, the Saints weren't behind enough, they are just overcomplicating their situation, waiting for a managerial appointment.
So, the scenario's clear. For now, Ipswich enjoy a better leap than the Saints for their next season preparations. Will Southampton chase them up? We will see.