Southampton remain without a league victory since the opening day but have been backed to rediscover form soon.
Middlesbrough head coach Rob Edwards has suggested that the Saints are in a false position despite their stuttering start under Will Still. That sounds a warning to Sheffield United, up next for the stuttering Saints.
EFL Championship
Confidence From Rivals
Southampton extended their winless sequence in the Championship to six matches following Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough at St Mary’s. Adam Armstrong’s composed finish gave the home side an early lead, only for summer signing Kaly Sene to equalise and secure a point for the visitors.
The result leaves Still’s side searching for their first league win since beating Wrexham on the opening weekend.
Despite their lack of victories, Edwards offered praise for the performance of the Hampshire outfit. Speaking after the match, he described Southampton as a “really good team” and insisted that results would turn sooner rather than later.
The Boro boss, who has dealt with relegation challenges himself, acknowledged the difficulty of managing a squad adjusting to life back in the second tier.
“I can’t speak for Will, I don’t know him, but he’s come into a big football club,” Edwards told the Daily Echo. “It’s hard to manage a relegation from the Premier League. They’re looking for that winning recipe, which I don’t think is far away.”
Pressure on Still
Will Still, who was appointed Southampton manager in June 2025, faces the challenge of moulding a squad still bearing the scars of relegation from the Premier League. The Saints have shown flashes of quality, with Armstrong continuing to be a threat in front of goal, but consistency has eluded them. The draw with Middlesbrough followed narrow defeats and frustrating stalemates, underlining a need for greater cutting edge.
Southampton now prepare for a trip to Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United. The Blades recorded their first win of the season at Oxford United over the weekend, and will provide a stern test for Still’s men as they seek to end their run of draws and defeats. The match offers the Saints another chance to demonstrate progress, even if patience is beginning to wear thin among supporters eager to see a promotion push.
Writer’s View
Southampton’s struggles highlight the difficulties that can follow a Premier League relegation, even for clubs with significant resources. While recent results have been disappointing, performances suggest there is a strong foundation to build upon.
Edwards’ assessment that the Saints are in a “false position” carries weight, given the talent in their squad. Tuesday’s clash with Sheffield United could be pivotal in restoring confidence and momentum, and it feels only a matter of time before Still’s side begin to turn performances into wins.
