The questions posed by this paper (December 23) on the back pages, regarding the options open to Saints for possible transfer activity are very high on the agenda of all fans.

It is, of course, great that we go into Christmas at seventh in the Premier League.

However, most of us feel that we could and should have done much better. 

We are all disappointed that having fought so hard to get into Europe we gave it up so easily.

Mass rotation and apparent lack of understanding from the management regarding the importance of the Europa run, to us the fans, was entirely frustrating and avoidable. 

So after listening to many Claude Puel interviews – which isn’t particularly easy – are we to believe the following: When offered the position of SFC manager, Claude was told that his main function was to pick teams not based on their merit at the time, or on who the opposition was, but to include as many academy players as possible in order to showcase them for future lucrative transfer deals!

Is this all we have become? No ambition to win anything, no loyalty to the thousands of us who supported the team throughout Europe, just keep trudging along the middle of the table developing players?

Not to improve our team and position, etc, but to sell on and make more money for the club?

With all the Sky money now available to clubs, could the fans paying large sums for tickets, etc, be given some consideration?

In every other business the customers are key – without them, there is no business! 

By all means select and play young players, some of whom show great promise, but don’t keep making large scale changes.

Claude said in one interview “we must learn more consistency” – a true statement. However, that is only possible if you have a team with only a few changes playing together consistently.

Sadly even this paper seems resigned to the fact that Virgil van Dijk will go in the summer. Why?

With a six-year contract surely we can expect 2/3 years playing for us before he is sold on at a great profit.

So here are some New Year’s resolution for the club, from us the fans:

  • Play to win each game with the best team available and if possible introduce new young players if the situation allows. 
  • Plan to keep van Dijk and other best players and build a strong, challenging team for next season.
  • Sort out something for the highly respected captain Jose Fonte – a great and loyal player.
  • Please buy an established striker in January.

All these points are high on the agendas of all Saints fans.

I would like to wish all at the club a very happy Christmas and a successful new year. 

P.S Could you also look at the prices and poor selection of food on sale before games and at half time.

Help us to help you succeed!

John Carter, Bitterne.