Fourth-choice Ramsdale will 'support team' - Eckert

What the report says

Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert says Aaron Ramsdale remains part of the squad even after slipping to fourth choice in the club’s goalkeeping order. According to BBC Sport Football, Eckert said the 28-year-old still has a role in helping the team, and that he has handled the situation professionally while the club has discussed his future with him throughout pre-season and the transfer window.

Ramsdale joined Southampton from Arsenal in 2024 and featured heavily last season, making 30 Premier League appearances before the club’s relegation. He later spent time on loan at Newcastle, where he played 23 matches, before returning to Southampton this summer. BBC Sport reported that he has been involved with the under-21 side this season after asking to play there, and that he was unable to secure a move away before the window closed.

Eckert said he expects Ramsdale to stay at St Mary’s for now, while also backing Daniel Peretz as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. Southampton have also committed to George Long as number two, with Jamie Jones added on deadline day as a training goalkeeper. The situation matters because it shows how Southampton are managing an experienced player who has top-level and England experience while trying to settle their goalkeeping hierarchy in the Championship.