Daily Echo:

HAVING been a Saints supporter since I watched my first match in November 1947 and a season ticket holder

for many years, first at the Dell and at St Mary’s Stadium, I think that van Dijk is among the best players I have seen.

However, I do agree with the management that having signed a contract with the club he should honour it. They should keep him at Southampton Football Club until it expires.

He could then go on a free transfer – his agent would not get very fat on the commission from this and who would want a player that has not played for years?

I am aware that the club would have to pay his wages for this period but it would send a message to those players with self-inflated egos that the club would not tolerate this type of behaviour.

K Street

Southampton