As Southampton FC continues its commendable climb up the Championship standings, the upcoming January transfer window presents a crucial opportunity for the club to fortify its promotion ambitions. After a turbulent start to the season marked by the departure of key players and a string of losses, questions surrounded manager Russell Martin’s ability to steer the team. However, the Saints have regrouped impressively, winning nine of their last 14 Championship games and securing a place in the top four.
Despite this resurgence, the pressure remains for Southampton to secure a swift return to the Premier League, and the January transfer window offers a potential lifeline. The club’s success hinges on prudent player acquisitions, especially in the event of losing key striker Che Adams. In this context, a compelling option emerges in the form of West Ham United’s Danny Ings.
Reports from Football Insider suggest that West Ham is open to selling the 31-year-old forward in January, provided a suitable offer materializes. Ings has struggled to secure regular playing time with the London club, prompting interest not only from Premier League teams but also from top-end Championship sides. Southampton, along with other contenders like Leicester City, Ipswich Town, and Leeds United, could be exploring the possibility of bringing Ings back to St. Mary’s Stadium.
During his previous stint with Southampton, Ings proved instrumental, initially joining on loan for the 2018/19 season from Liverpool before making the move permanent. Over two seasons, he featured in 100 games, scoring 46 goals and providing 10 assists. Notably, Ings’ most prolific season was the 2019/20 campaign, where he finished second in the Premier League golden boot race with 22 goals.
Analyzing his performance that season, Ings showcased impressive statistics, with an expected goals (xG) of 16.2 and expected assists (xAG) of 2.7. He averaged a goal every 0.71 times per 90 minutes and contributed an assist every 0.06 times per 90 minutes. Ings demonstrated accuracy in front of goal, with a shot accuracy rate of 38.5%, taking 91 shots, of which 35 were on target. His goals per shot ratio stood at 0.23, underlining his clinical finishing.
While Ings has struggled to replicate this form at subsequent clubs, his affinity for Southampton suggests a potential openness to a return. Southampton, in turn, urgently needs to bolster its forward line, particularly if Adams departs. With injury concerns surrounding Ross Stewart, the club cannot solely rely on Adam Armstrong. Convincing Ings to drop down to the Championship might pose a challenge, but given his successful history with Southampton, the club holds a competitive edge over other suitors.
In conclusion, Southampton FC should actively pursue a deal for Danny Ings in the January transfer window. His proven track record at the club, combined with the pressing need for attacking reinforcements, makes Ings an ideal candidate to support the Saints’ promotion aspirations. The potential reunion could provide the spark needed for Southampton to secure a swift return to the Premier League.
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