Still on Southampton keeper situation after Ramsdale exit
Southampton manager Will Still has given his clearest indication yet on the club’s goalkeeping plans following the departure of Aaron Ramsdale to Newcastle United, confirming that Gavin Bazunu is currently set to start the season as Saints’ number one.
Bazunu, who is returning from a long-term Achilles injury suffered in April 2024, has made a strong impression on Still during pre-season, featuring in matches against Spanish side Castellon and Premier League outfit Brighton. The Republic of Ireland international has not played a competitive game for Southampton since his injury but has shown sharpness and composure that have impressed the new manager.
“He’s earned the right to be considered first choice,” Still told the press after their final pre-season outing. “Gavin has worked incredibly hard over the summer, and what we’ve seen in training and on the pitch makes it clear he’s in the frame to start.”
Bazunu’s return comes at a critical time for Southampton. With Ramsdale securing a Premier League loan move to Newcastle United and veteran Alex McCarthy in the final year of his contract, the club’s goalkeeping situation is once again in the spotlight.
Still admitted that while he’s happy with the current options, the club hasn’t ruled out dipping into the transfer market. “We are looking at the goalkeeping department,” he said. “We have to be honest about the physical demands of the Championship and the fact that Gavin is coming back from a serious injury. Alex \[McCarthy] brings experience and leadership, but we have to assess whether we’re fully covered for a long season.”
McCarthy, 34, has featured sporadically in pre-season but is clearly being considered more as a backup at this stage. Youngsters Joe Lumley and Jack Bycroft have also trained with the first team but are not thought to be in immediate contention for senior minutes.
Ramsdale’s departure, though expected, leaves a significant gap in the squad. The England international’s brief spell at St Mary’s gave the Saints a stable presence in goal, and with promotion to the Premier League the club’s clear objective this season, any uncertainty in that position will be watched closely by supporters and pundits alike.
Bazunu’s rise to reclaim the gloves comes with a hint of redemption. After a mixed debut season with Southampton in 2022/23 that saw his performances questioned during a difficult relegation campaign, his comeback from injury appears to have reset the narrative. Still, however, was cautious not to overstate things.
“We’re not handing out guarantees,” he added. “Every position is earned. Gavin knows that, and he’s embracing the challenge.”
As the Championship season approaches, all eyes will be on whether Bazunu can carry his pre-season form into competitive fixtures. With the club keeping one eye on the transfer window, the next few weeks could be decisive—not just for Bazunu, but for how Southampton shape their campaign from the back.
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