As the Saints fans prepare for the mass exodus that happens to most clubs after relegation from the Premier League, there is some positive news with the announcement that Dom Ballard has signed a new deal.

Dom Ballard burst onto the scene back in August when after coming on for his first team debut at Cambridge United in the Carabao Cup he scored a late goal to secure a 3-0 win.

Despite some impressive appearances for the B Team in the Premier League 2 Division 2, which earned him a nomination for the Player of the year award for the division, he had to wait until 1st March for his second opportunity when again he was a late sub, this time in the FA Cup in the embarrassing defeat against Grimsby Town.

Across all academy age groups, Ballard scored 27 goals in 34 games, plus his goal in the Carabao Cup.

After relegation had been confirmed clamour amongst the Saints supporters for youth to be given a go in the final two games saw him make his Premier League debut at Brighton followed by a short cameo in the final game at home to Liverpool.

Those who saw him play for the B team could clearly see the potential in the striker who only turned 18 in April, but there was also caution needed, at 17 he was not quite ready for the Premier League and playing in a struggling team that was failing to create chances for the forwards, was not going to help him either in his development or how he would be perceived by the fans, let alone saving Saints from relegation.

But now with some experience under his belt, there is no reason why he should not blossom in the Championship, but he should not be rushed, there is some weight on his shoulders from some Saints supporters who building him up to be the next young Southampton striker to break through from the ranks, he may well be, but it might not be as quick as some would hope.

So the news that he has signed a two year extension to his contract that will now tie him to the club until the summer of 2026 is welcome news for Saints supporters and a real positive note.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters