Advertisement

Centre-backs reportedly face uncertain future with Saints

Southampton's Jan Bednarek (Pic: PA)
Southampton's Jan Bednarek (Pic: PA)

SAINTS defenders Jan Bednarek and Jack Stephens reportedly face an unclear future as the club look to overhaul their squad ahead of the 2022-23 season.

Martin Semmens and new owners Sport Republic have already moved quickly to address a dismal end to the season, seeing just one win in the final 12 Premier League matches.

First-team coaches Craig Fleming, Dave Watson and Kelvin Davis are all to part ways with Saints, with the club announcing new coaches in due course.

It is the first major shakeup of Ralph Hasenhuttl’s – who for now retains his job as manager – backroom staff since summer 2019.

And with the transfer window opening in around two weeks, attentions now turn to addressing factors on the pitch.

The Athletic report one of those areas as a central defender, suggesting both Bednarek and Stephens face uncertain futures and could be sold in the upcoming window.

Daily Echo: Saints defender Jack Stephens (Pic: Stuart Martin)
Daily Echo: Saints defender Jack Stephens (Pic: Stuart Martin)

Saints defender Jack Stephens (Pic: Stuart Martin)

Polish international Bednarek, 26, is under contract at St Mary’s to 2025 and despite falling out of favour with the supporters, made 31 Premier League appearances this term.

He would likely be one of a smaller number of Saints assets who could still generate interest and a transfer fee, with his vast experience at a young age for a defender.

Meanwhile, the club are yet to announce a new contract signed by 28-year-old Stephens revealed in last year’s FA intermediary report.

The length of that contract has not been confirmed, but he could face being moved on by the club before it has even been announced.

Stephens started the season in good form but then missed nearly three months with a hamstring tendon injury picked up during the 0-0 draw at Manchester City in September.

He went on to make five league appearances since the turn of 2022.

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News