It's not the academy we have to thank but team spirit

[Torrent Of Abuse]

Strong today as it was last season - even despite the departures.

It seems Fonte is a key figure in the squad. Superb choice for captain.

[Professor]

In many respects, Jose Fonte is the unsung hero. Took a drop in the league when he joined Saints in L1 from Championship aide, Palace. Along with Morgan, a remaining link to the L1 promotion side. Many people doubted that he would make the grade in the Prem but he's been Mr Reliable and chips in with a goal every now and then. It is the continuity provided by club stalwarts like Jose that keeps that team spirit going. Heard Koeman saying he decided to keep the team playing the way they were before and although he may have changed a few things, as well as the personnel changes, what has stayed the same looks like the source of the team's strength.

[Torrent Of Abuse]

Results have been going our way but I'd say Schneiderlin's willingness to keep his head down has a lot to do with the spirit in the camp. We seem to have bought very well for a number of years now in terms of bringing in players who buy into the team spirit and don't rock the boat. Jos Hooiveld and Jose Fonte are big players in this but it's good to see regular Instagram posts from that central group of key players.

 

Personally, I'd like to see Jose lift a cup this year and maybe in time he'll find a place up on the banner*

 

 

 

 

* Ok. Big ask. It's not as if Peter Rodrigues is up there.