Southampton will likely have to prepare for life without Che Adams, who is out of contract in the summer.
Adams is being linked with a move to the Premier League today, and it looks that he has decided not to renew his contract at Southampton.
After nearly five years on the South Coast, making 180 appearances and scoring just shy of a half-century of goals, the Scotland international is preparing to say goodbye.
With only 10 games remaining in the season, it’s possible that this will be his final appearance for the Saints, so what better way to go out than with a promotion medal.
Ross Stewart can replace Che Adams
Normally, Southampton would have to enter the transfer market to find a replacement, but there is already an ideal heir in the wings.
Last summer, the South Coaters paid an initial £8 million plus £4 million in potential add-ons for Ross Stewart, who left Sunderland after scoring 40 goals in 80 appearances.
The 27-year-old arrived with a lot of promise, and it was regarded as a huge statement addition from Southampton.
Director of football Jason Wilcox was pleased with his signing, saying in September: “Ross is a really dynamic and intelligent player, so we’re delighted to have added him to the group.”
“His form and growth over the last several seasons have been quite good, and we believe this will be an excellent place for him to continue.
“He’s got a fantastic work-rate and he’s a great character too, so we believe he’ll be a really popular addition and an excellent fit for us.”
Unfortunately, as they did the previous season, injuries have hampered Stewart, limiting him to only two Championship appearances this season.
He is not anticipated to return before the end of the season, but Saints fans may see him in action during the preseason.
If he stays fit throughout the summer and gets back up to speed in friendlies, Russell Martin will have a ready-made Adams successor for next season.
If he can regain the form he displayed at Sunderland, he may be a significant upgrade over Adams in many respects.
Ross Stewart compared to Che Adams
Stewart has a far higher goals-per-game ratio than Adams, although playing at a lower level. The 6’2″ centre-forward averages a goal every 2.69 games, whereas Adams averages 3.7.
Adams’ game is much more than just scoring goals, but it’s an interesting comparison nonetheless.
Stewart would be unable to operate on the sides in a Russell Martin system, as the former Birmingham City attacker can.
So, from that standpoint, it appears that if the Saints enter the market to replace Adams, they should search for a more versatile forward with experience playing as a left flank.
It’s been a long road for Stewart, but with preseason approaching and Adams leaving, the stage is set for him to hit the ground running come August.
