Victor Wanyama sends encouraging message as Southampton secure Premier League return

Victor Wanyama of Southampton in action during the 2015/2016 Premier League match against Leicester City at King Power Stadium.

Victor Wanyama sends encouraging message as Southampton secure Premier League return

Festus Chuma 09:30 - 27.05.2024

Wanyama has sent a message to his former club Southampton on their return to the Premier League after winning the Championship play-off final.

Former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has extended a warm welcome to his former club, Southampton, as they secured their return to the English Premier League. 

The South Coast club, which had been a regular fixture in the top flight for 11 consecutive seasons, faced relegation last year but has now clinched promotion in dramatic fashion.

Southampton triumphed over Leeds, securing a 1-0 victory in the Championship playoff final that not only brought them back to the Premier League but also ensured a substantial financial boost of £140 million. 

Adam Armstrong was the hero of the hour, his decisive strike sealing the deal for the Saints.

Wanyama, who was a key player for Southampton from 2013 to 2016 before moving to Tottenham Hotspur, took to social media to express his delight. 

"Welcome back to the English Premier League Southampton FC," he posted on his social media pages.

During his tenure at Southampton, Wanyama became known for his robust midfield presence, contributing significantly to the team’s performances both in domestic and European competitions. 

His transfer to the club in 2013 for a reported fee of £12.5 million marked him as a significant asset, and his impact was felt throughout his stay.

The match that sealed Southampton’s return was fraught with tension, particularly in the final moments as Leeds pushed desperately for an equalizer. 

Leeds substitute Dan James came agonizingly close, striking the crossbar late in the game. However, Russell Martin’s side held on through nearly 12 minutes of added time, a testament to their resilience and determination.

This defeat marks a continuing frustration for Leeds, who have now lost their last three finals at Wembley without scoring a goal and have been unsuccessful in all six of their playoff attempts.

The pattern this year in the playoffs has been noteworthy, with all three finals won by the team that finished lower in the league table — a curious twist that saw the higher-placed teams failing to score in each match.

After his time with Southampton and Tottenham, Wanyama moved to Montreal in 2020, following a dip in his playing time at Spurs.

His career which continues to be illustrious now sees him playing in Major League Soccer where he still keeps an eye on the fortunes of his former clubs.

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