Southampton’s immediate priorities include determining the futures of loan duo Flynn Downes and Ryan Fraser. Nevertheless, the club is also keen to swiftly resolve the future of a player who has been with the Saints for eight years.
Southampton want Alex McCarthy to stay
Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy spent most of the season as Southampton’s third-choice goalkeeper, seldom even making the squad. Gavin Bazunu held the position of the undisputed number one, with summer signing Joe Lumley acting as his backup and featuring in cup matches.
However, when Bazunu sustained an injury during the warm-up for the Preston match in April, it was McCarthy—who hadn’t even been named in the squad—that Martin turned to instead of Lumley. McCarthy kept a clean sheet and subsequently played the last seven matches of the season, including a pivotal role in the play-offs by conceding just once in three games.
In an unexpected twist of events, Southampton is now considering offering the soon-to-be out-of-contract 34-year-old a new deal. According to journalist Jack Rosser on ‘X,’ Southampton has ‘made it clear’ they want McCarthy to remain at the club.
Southampton can’t make Alex McCarthy starting promise
Given that Alex McCarthy was third choice less than two months ago, it’s a significant request to expect assurances about being the first-choice goalkeeper. However, it’s admirable that the veteran goalkeeper is only interested in staying if he’s guaranteed regular playing time, especially when many goalkeepers are content with serving as backups.
With his homegrown status and impending free agency on June 1st, McCarthy has become an attractive option, attracting interest from clubs like Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Celtic.
While Southampton should offer McCarthy a new contract, it can’t guarantee him the top spot in the goalkeeping hierarchy. Gavin Bazunu, despite making some mistakes throughout the season, has been Martin’s preferred goalkeeper, primarily due to his proficiency with the ball at his feet, which aligns with Southampton’s style of play.
While McCarthy may offer a more secure pair of hands, his discomfort with the ball at his feet may not fit well with Martin’s tactics in the Premier League. Thus, if McCarthy is willing to adjust his expectations, a new contract could be a viable option. However, if not, Southampton may need to express gratitude for McCarthy’s contributions to their promotion and seek other options moving forward.
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