27 Aug 2026 18:45:04
JWP closer to returning, I for one hope he does. I know all his downfalls and as a basic midfielder he doesn't offer us much BUT if I'm Tonda I'm hoping/thinking I'm bringing him in for one reason, to recreate the dead ball magic he had for us the season right before he left. Deadball skills decline slower than fitness/general ability so provided he's be keeping at it, we should have a player with a skill set no one else in the league has.

For me that's 100% beneficial to the team and worthy of taking someone's place on midfield. Or even bring him on late in the game. I 100% welcome and want him back

1.) 27 Aug 2026
27 Aug 2026 19:02:01
Brilliant signing. He will be the new team captain with Stephens becoming club captain.
Less than a million quid! He's obviously taken a massive pay cut! I think he's come back to help the club and prove all his doubters wrong.
True club legend who should command the respect of all Saints fans.

2.) 28 Aug 2026
28 Aug 2026 13:01:57
Done deal ?.

It's a fantastic bit of business whatever way you look at at. He essentially went on loam for a few years and West Ham paid us 30 Million for the privilege.

Yet to be seen wether it can recreate the form but I don't feel like we've lost anything in this deal.

If he turns out to be another failed return we just look again in winter, but as I say, dead ball. skills are something rarely lost. I'm looking forward to us putting in decent corners, crosses and hopefully a few special free kicks.

3.) 28 Aug 2026
28 Aug 2026 19:12:28
Wow! .
Just Wow!
Good post Leslee (I literally can't believe there is no dig at the club or manager)
Completely agree it is good business and pleased to see him back.

4.) 28 Aug 2026
28 Aug 2026 22:16:30
I'm not convinced this is a good move but happy to be proved wrong, I feel you should always look forward and not back in the past!

5.) 28 Aug 2026
28 Aug 2026 23:12:32
From a business perspective, I think it's tremendous business.

I share Sainty76's reservations about how much impact he will have though, and like him, I would be only too happy to be proved wrong.

For me, JWP is most effective when playing higher up the pitch and Southgate recognised that when he played in the England team. When he's playing in his normal deeper role he is pedestrian.

Our team needs pace and purpose and I don't think that will come from JWP and Downes in midfield.

Anyway, I'm glad this bit of business has lightened the mood for the majority of fans.

I'm also hoping the German defender we've signed will spell the end of Stephens.

Looking forward to Milwall - should be a cracking game.

6.) 29 Aug 2026
29 Aug 2026 10:41:52
He's got a point to prove and he's got a really good engine. He and Azaz see passes no other Saints player see.
As previously stated, JWP can play the 10 role if Azaz gets injured or tired.


Would love to see Peretz Bree Wood Shlotterback Manning then Downes Jander Then Azaz and JWP then Scienza and Larin in a 4-2-2-2. Forget this obsession with wingers and one dimensional crossing.