If Saints fans needed any more confirmation that the Saints squad is committed to the cause, the new that Shane Long has signed a new deal is just that !
Shane Long has become the latest member of Saints squad to sign a new deal, in his first year at the club Long was very much the unsung hero of the squad, his contribution often over shadowed by the exploits of the likes of Graziano Pelle and Sadio Mane, but may Saints fans did recognise just what he did add to the team.
In the second half of last season the Irishman came into his own and inspired Saints to what was a great second half of the season only bettered by Champions Leicester City.
After Ronald Koeman left for Everton the rumour was that he would be back for key members of Saints squad and that Shane Long would be one he would be persuing.
But those rumours were scotched this evening with the news that Long has signed a new four year deal with the club.
Executive Director of Football Les Reed said: "Shane has been an important asset to the team ever since his arrival at the club in 2014, and he was an influential part of our record-breaking Premier League campaign last season.
"His experience and character also make him an extremely valuable member of the squad off the pitch, as well as on it, and I am delighted we have strengthened our commitment with him.
"Shane is the latest in a significant number of first-team players to have signed new contracts with the club in recent weeks and months, indicating the players' belief that there is more to come, while further strengthening the core of our squad as we move into what promises to be another memorable campaign.
"Shane is one of many exciting attacking options that we have at our disposal, and he will no doubt play an important part in the season and the years ahead.”
Shane Long said: "I'm delighted. I'm excited to be part of what could be a big future in the next four years for this club.
"I love it here, the set-up, the training ground, the lads as well — everyone around the club. It's a real family feel, and I feel like I'm a big part of that and I feel like I'm playing my best football here as well.
"I've enjoyed every minute down here. I'm happy, my family are happy, and it's a good place to be.”
So great news for Saints fans as yet another key member of the Saints squad is tied down to a long term deal, proving that they believe in Saints ambition and strategy and that the turmoil of two years ago is a thing of the past.