Tony Pulis believes Still's debut season will be strictly measured by the Championship promotion yardstick.
Yesterday, a fraction of Southampton fans must've been gutted by ex-boss Russell Martin's exaggerated claim of his St. Mary's work. And rightly so, given unforeseen injury concerns were key in impacting the potential of Saints talents after his departure.
But, no matter how the manager's repute remains among the fans now, Southampton can never really forget their former gaffer.
After all, Martin has been the only Saints boss to deliver the Championship promotion at first time of asking.
Needless to say, that's what may stress the new boss Will Still, who will be hoped to repeat the same feat this season. And surely preferred to help a direct promotion rather than following in Martin's playoffs route.
But, as if hoped to give the best Championship performance in his debut season wasn't enough, veteran manager Tony Pulis' recent remarks must raise the performance pressure on him further.
Still sent warning to secure Championship promotion anyway
Recently, as quoted by the Daily Echo, Pulis talked of Still's debut season task, saying: "He will have the opportunity and the chance to definitely be successful in his first year and success there is promotion, nothing less than promotion."
Honestly, no Saints staff, and neither Still will be unaware of this, who wouldn't want to stay in the Championship next season either. But while Still fears not to tarnish his European image next season, the fear of fans runs deeper.
That's because Pulis' optimistic belief for Still's success considers the Saints retaining their core which hardly feels like translating to reality. And given the club's feeble ongoing preparations for the upcoming season, Pulis' previous Championship warning might just turn true against Southampton.
Admit it or not, Will Still has more to lose in reputation than win at Southampton in the upcoming season. But should the manager ace the challenge, Still can be a Saints fan-favourite instantly. Let's see what happens now.