Ryan Fraser has spoken out about his departure from Newcastle United, his time at Southampton, and what the future may bring.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future at Southampton, Ryan Fraser believes there is no way for him to return to Newcastle United. This despite the fact that the winger has had a decent start to life on the south coast since leaving the Magpies on loan in the summer.
Fraser has appeared in 23 games for Southampton this season, 18 of which have come off the bench, and has scored four goals, including a brace against Swansea City on Boxing Day. After being demoted to Newcastle’s reserves following a fight with Eddie Howe, a move to the Championship was a no-brainer for the midfielder last summer.
After Fraser was forced to practice with the under-21s, Howe declared that he wanted ‘dedicated’ players in his St James’ Park setup, and the attacker now fears he will never wear a black and white shirt again.
“I think my time at Newcastle is done now,” Fraser told the Daily Echo. “I don’t think you get loaned out if you have a chance of returning.”
“As we all know, the second half of last season was difficult. Coming here was all about assisting the squad in any way I could. Coming off the bench and having an impact in games has been the norm. It feels great to contribute to the team.”
Fraser is clearly enjoying life at the other end of the nation and is contributing to Russell Martin’s side as they seek automatic promotion from the Championship. However, the Saints manager is unsure whether the deal will be extended.
“I don’t know if it will be feasible right now but he just needs to keep doing what he is doing, he is in a really good place and enjoying it,” he added in a recent interview.
Southampton are presently third, three points from an automatic promotion slot, and Fraser is focused on returning to the Premier League with his new club as he vows his devotion to the second-tier squad.
“Promotion is the first thing on my mind, but hopefully I have a good end to the season and the club want to keep me,” he said. “Every time I step onto the pitch or into Staplewood, I need to give myself the best opportunity because there is no place I want to be other than Southampton next season.”
