As the fourth official raised his board to signal the end of Ryan Fraser’s day, tens of thousands of Southampton fans stood up and cheered.
Affectionately known as Wee Man, Ryan Fraser received a standing ovation from tens of thousands of Southampton fans as he made the long walk around the Wembley turf. He clapped back at the fans, tapping the badge in a gesture of affection towards the club.
Thirty minutes later, Fraser was sprinting back towards those ecstatic supporters, knowing he had helped the club return to the Premier League. For now, his final action as a Southampton player remains celebrating on the stage outside St Mary’s on Monday afternoon.
However, the Daily Echo understands that Southampton have already begun efforts to sign the Newcastle man ahead of next season. A fee will need to be agreed with Eddie Howe’s side to secure the 30-year-old’s return, as he still has a year left on his contract. Fraser is eager to stay on the South Coast, having spent most of the season working towards a permanent move, and manager Martin is also keen to keep him.
Speaking with the Echo at the start of 2024, Fraser admitted that his days at Newcastle United were numbered. He said, “I think my time at Newcastle is done now. I don’t think you get put out on loan if there is a chance of you going back.”
As long as the finances involved do not hinder Southampton’s ability to sign other players, a return feels like the best solution for all parties. Fraser arrived in August with a reputation for having a bad attitude after spending several months out of favor under Howe at Newcastle. This public disagreement came three years after he opted against signing a short-term extension at AFC Bournemouth, a decision that coincided with the Cherries’ relegation.
Fans were naturally cautious of his arrival, especially as Southampton were already well-stocked in wide positions. Before the deal was formally announced, Martin defended signing his former Scotland teammate, insisting, “I’m really fortunate that I know him. If I thought his character would be a problem, then he wouldn’t be here.”
Martin’s words have proven true with the benefit of hindsight. Despite previous controversies, Fraser quickly won the hearts of the St Mary’s faithful. From his debut against QPR, his talent at the Championship level was evident. Beyond his six goals and two assists, Fraser has endeared himself with his work ethic and positive attitude. His late winners at Hull and Millwall have also helped his cause.
Fraser tirelessly sprints up and down the left wing without complaint. Even during a stretch of games when he wasn’t starting, despite his constant impact from the bench, Fraser insisted he was happy with his role, believing in the sentiment, “Don’t fix what isn’t broken.”
In media interactions, Fraser often cracks jokes, giving a glimpse of his off-field personality. In one interview, he humorously suggested that his height, five-foot-four, would prevent him from becoming a manager.
Really strong words from Ryan Fraser. No doubts around his effort levels or his attitude since he’s come in, great to see him off the mark yesterday.
Hopefully more goals to come for wee man.🤞🏻 #SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/RIzisyIkcl
— Rob (@SaintRob__) October 22, 2023
Fraser’s personality is essential to retain in the dressing room following promotion. Martin has been praised for creating a thriving environment for the players and credits Fraser with helping achieve that.
Staying in the Premier League will be the aim next season, and to do that, Southampton need players with top-flight experience. Willing to play anywhere, Fraser’s versatility and seven seasons of top-flight experience make signing him permanently a no-brainer.