Southampton 2017 Squad: A Look Back at the Roster

In the 2016-2017 season, Southampton Football Club underwent significant changes in their squad, with both new signings and high-profile departures. Let's take a look back at the roster and the key players who made an impact on the team during that time.

Manager and Coaching Staff

Claude Puel took charge as the manager of Southampton in the 2016-2017 season. Under his guidance, the coaching staff worked tirelessly to develop the squad's tactical and technical abilities, aiming to secure a competitive edge in the Premier League.

Goalkeepers

Southampton's goalkeeping department boasted the talents of Fraser Forster and Alex McCarthy. Forster, known for his commanding presence in the penalty area, provided stability and confidence in front of the goal. Meanwhile, McCarthy's agility and shot-stopping abilities made him a reliable backup option.

Defenders

The defensive line featured talented individuals such as Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Bertrand, and Cedric Soares. Van Dijk's composure and aerial prowess made him a standout performer, garnering attention from top clubs. Bertrand displayed consistency and attacking threat from the left-back position, while Soares' defensive discipline and overlapping runs added depth to the squad.

Midfielders

Oriol Romeu patrolled the midfield with his robust tackling and distribution skills, offering protection to the backline. Steven Davis, James Ward-Prowse, and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg contributed with their technical abilities and work rate, forming a dynamic midfield unit capable of dictating play in the middle of the park.

Forwards

The attacking options saw the likes of Nathan Redmond, Dusan Tadic, and Shane Long making significant contributions. Redmond's pace and trickery posed threats to opposition defenses, while Tadic's creativity and vision provided key assists. Long's tireless work ethic and goal-scoring instincts added a valuable dimension to Southampton's attack.

New Signings and Departures

During the 2016-2017 season, the club welcomed the arrivals of Sofiane Boufal, Manolo Gabbiadini, and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, among others. These signings aimed to bolster the squad with fresh talent and provide additional options in key areas. On the other hand, the departure of players such as Jose Fonte and Jay Rodriguez marked a transition phase for the team.

Highlights and Challenges

Southampton experienced moments of success, including notable victories and competitive performances in the Premier League and cup competitions. However, the squad also faced challenges, such as injuries and inconsistent form, which tested their resilience over the course of the season.

Overall Assessment

The 2016-2017 Southampton squad showcased depth and quality in various positions, with each player playing a crucial role in the team's performance. While the season had its ups and downs, the squad's collective effort and determination were evident as they aimed to compete at the highest level of English football.

As the 2017 season concluded, Southampton's squad underwent further changes, reflecting the dynamic nature of football. However, the contributions of the players in the 2016-2017 campaign left a lasting impression on the club and its supporters.