Following a great start to his loan stay on the South Coast, Southampton manager Russell Martin is open to signing Ryan Fraser on a permanent basis.
After falling out of favor with Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe early this year, the Scot jumped at the chance to join the Saints in the summer after spending the second half of last season practicing with the Mapies’ under-21s.
Fraser has played 11 games for Martin’s team thus far, and he recently opened his account for the 2023-24 season with an injury-time winner versus Hull City.
The 29-year-old has already stated a desire to stay at St Mary’s, and Martin is open to the notion, albeit he has pushed the player to keep up his form.
“We want good players and good characters – Ryan definitely fits into that,” Martin said to the Daily Echo.
“The fact that he feels the way he does after only a short time here is fantastic for us as a group of players and staff to demonstrate what we’re trying to build here.”
“People feel a sense of belonging and want to be a part of it.” He’s having a great time, and his energy has been fantastic over the last several weeks.”
“Knowing Ryan and his capabilities, would he be someone we want as part of the project here for longer than we have him?” Martin said. Of course, he must perform well enough on the field to ensure that everyone feels the same way.We’re on the same wavelength. He and the coaching staff are on the same page. Ryan will only improve.
“He came in trying to get fit, but he’s got through that period now. They are in a place where they understand the detail and their role in the group is solid.
“All they need to do now is keep growing together, and it’s up to us to make sure they keep learning together.” I’m optimistic that we can put ourselves in a strong position.”
Fraser, who is under contract at Newcastle until 2025, has made 59 appearances for the club since joining on a free transfer from Bournemouth in 2020.
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