I would counter by looking at cities like Montpellier, Udine, Leverkusen, A Coruna and Villarreal.
On the face of it not exactly inspiring places. Under the right management and direction though they have been able to compete in european competition and for domestic honours.
While the City of Southampton is not exactly in the middle of a purple patch, the surrounding area is still one of the most affluent, peaceful and beautiful in the whole nation.