Return of fallen hero Adam Lallana could save Southampton's season

By Mathew Nash

When Adam Lallana left Southampton it was certainly under a cloud. The England international ended up forcing a switch to Liverpool, leaving his beloved Saints behind. He headed to Anfield in a £25 million deal in July 2014, eventually becoming a regular at Anfield under Jurgen Klopp.

It was a bitter pill to swallow for Southampton fans, who watched their captain force  an exit. It was also hard for Lallana, who later admitted he regretted the way the deal ended up being done.

“The way I left I regret, I regret bits and pieces of how it happened and it got nasty. It was sad the way it happened.

“Deep down I hope Saints fans appreciate the times we had at the club together.

“Football is a fickle game – if I do get the jeers and the boos I’m just going to take it as them missing me playing down there because I miss Southampton.

“I miss the fans and I miss the good times we had down there. Of course I do.”

– Adam Lallana speaking before facing Southampton for the first time

However, nearly five years later, should Southampton now consider bringing him back?

The Saints are in a relegation fight and will need new recruits in January if they are to remain in the top-flight.

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 11: Adam Lallana of Southampton reacts during the Barclays Premier League match between Southampton and West Bromwich Albion at St Mary’s Stadium on January 11, 2014 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

Lallana, meanwhile, has battled back from injury to find himself near surplus to requirements at Liverpool.

He is now fighting fit, despite a recent head injury requiring four stitches and Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl could surely get the best out of him.

It would take a degree of forgiveness from the Southampton faithful, of that there is no doubt. However, if the former captain could return and help his old club move away from the drop-zone, all will soon be forgotten.