Exeter Slammed as ‘Bitter’ After Southampton Product Moves to Plymouth
Former Southampton academy star Caleb Watts has sparked controversy in the southwest after signing with Plymouth Argyle – and Exeter City’s reaction to the move has drawn sharp criticism.
Watts, a highly-rated former Saints midfielder, completed a free transfer to League One promotion hopefuls Plymouth Argyle earlier this week. But it wasn’t the move itself that grabbed headlines – it was how Exeter responded to losing out on the talented 22-year-old.
In a statement published on their official channels, Exeter confirmed they had been in advanced discussions with Watts and had tabled what they described as a “competitive offer.” However, they went on to express disappointment at the player’s decision, suggesting that he had “chosen to move elsewhere for reasons that are not football-related,” in an apparent dig at Watts’ motives.
The statement quickly drew ire from both fans and pundits, with many branding it “bitter” and “unprofessional.” Critics argue that Exeter’s tone implied sour grapes over losing out on a player to their fiercest rivals.
One prominent football journalist tweeted: *“Disappointed to see Exeter stoop to this sort of statement. Players choose clubs for a variety of reasons – questioning their motives publicly isn’t a good look.”*
Meanwhile, Plymouth supporters seized on the opportunity to mock their rivals. Argyle fans flooded social media with taunts, suggesting Exeter’s reaction was proof that the club had been left rattled by the move.
Watts, who made his Premier League debut for Southampton in January 2021 and was part of Australia’s Olympic squad later that year, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons. However, he impressed during a short stint at Morecambe in the 2022/23 season and has been working to rebuild his career.
Plymouth boss Ian Foster welcomed the arrival of Watts, calling him “a technically gifted player with a point to prove.” Foster added: *“We’re delighted to bring Caleb in. He’s someone we’ve monitored for a while, and we believe he can thrive in our environment.”*
The midfielder is expected to bring depth and versatility to Argyle’s squad as they aim to bounce back to the Championship at the first time of asking.
In contrast, Exeter’s off-season has been marked by frustration, with several targets slipping through their grasp and concerns mounting among fans about the club’s ambition. The loss of Watts to their Devon rivals has only heightened tensions.
Club insiders have reportedly tried to calm the backlash, insisting the statement was intended to provide transparency rather than stir controversy. But for many, the damage has already been done.
As for Watts, he appears focused on the challenge ahead. In his first interview as an Argyle player, he said: *“I’m excited to be here. It’s a great club with big ambitions, and I’m ready to work hard and show what I can do.”*
The midfielder’s first taste of the Devon derby, should he be fit and selected, is sure to be a fiery one – and thanks to Exeter’s reaction, the rivalry has already been reignited long before a ball is kicked.
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