Souness replies to Saints takeover speculation
6:27am Tuesday 13th May 2008
FORMER Saints manager Graeme Souness has said there is no truth in rumours linking him with a bid for the club.
The Scot, who managed Saints for their 1996/97 "Great Escape" season, knocked back reports he was considering a deal for the club.
Souness, along with Everest double glazing tycoon Brian Kennedy, mounted a failed £20m bid to buy Wolves last year.
However, he told the Daily Echo last night that there was no foundation to rumours he had turned his attention to Saints.
"I don't know where that has come from and it is not true," he said.
The 55-year-old did say he was thrilled Saints avoided relegation to League One, following their dramatic 3-2 final day win over Sheffield United.
Souness, who now lives in Manchester, added he still holds plenty of affection for both the city, the club and people involved with it.
"I am delighted, especially for someone like Lawrie McMenemy, who was an enormous help to me when I was manager there," he said.
"I'm very pleased for the supporters as well.
"Southampton has got everything in place to become a successful football club.
"They should be in the Premiership and I hope they get back there soon.
"I enjoyed my time there and it was a shame that it wasn't longer. I loved living down there and I do miss it."
With Souness ruling himself out, it seems Saints' best hope of investment still comes in the form of the consortium featuring Southampton barrister Jonathan Fulthorpe, John Cousins and former Saints boss Dave Merrington.
Reports have suggested the money is nearly in place for a bid.
Full story: See today's Daily Echo.