Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale and Southampton teammates have reacted to David Brooks’ goodbye message on social media.
Southampton are basking in the success of their promotion back to the Premier League following a 1-0 victory over Leeds United.
It’s only been four days since Adam Armstrong sent the Red Corner of Wembley Stadium into delirium with this 24th-minute strike but preparations have already begun for their return to the top flight.
The South Coasters wrapped up the permanent signing of Taylor Harwood-Bellis for £20 million from Manchester City following his incredible loan spell at St Marys.
Capturing West Ham midfielder Flynn Downes is next on the list of priorities after he starred in Russell Martin’s engine room, although the Hammers are yet to decide on his future.
There is however, one loanee who isn’t likely to return this summer and that is winger David Brooks, who shared a goodbye message to supporters on social media.
Aaron Ramsdale and other Southampton teammates react to David Brooks’ message
Brooks made his 20th appearance for the Saints since arriving on loan from Bournemouth in Sunday’s play-off final, starting on the right flank.
The Welsh wizard has made a decent enough impression at St Marys with two goals and six assists for the club, including setting up Will Smallbone for his opener against West Brom in the play-off semi-final.
Sadly, it was an emotional ending to his Saints career on Sunday, as while he celebrated promotion with his players, he was substituted in the 35th minute after dislocating his shoulder.
Describing the moment he had to leave the pitch as “gutting”, Brooks has since taken to social media to thank everyone associated with the club for a successful five-month spell.
Responses flooded in for the 26-year-old, including from Arsenal goalkeeper and former Bournemouth teammate Aaron Ramsdale, who wrote: “Live long in the memory that one.”
Cherries striker Dominic Solanke also responded, saying: “Congrats bro.”
Meanwhile, Saints teammates Kyle Walker-Peters, Smallbone, and Adam Armstrong replied with love heart emojis.
Will Southampton sign David Brooks permanently?
Martin claimed he’d like to sign Brooks permanently in February but insisted his contract had no option.
The Southampton boss also added: “If I had the opportunity, I would sign Brooksy to a contract that he has to stay with me until he retires.”
Martin is a huge fan of the Welsh international and that could point towards him having a future at St Marys however, the Saints are now stepping up to the Premier League, so perhaps it is an option they should avoid.
Although Brooks is adored by his manager and teammates, there is no room for sentiment in the top flight and the club must target players who are better than Bournemouth man.
After all, he was shipped out on loan from the Vitality Stadium as he struggled to earn minutes under Andoni Iraola, playing just 273 minutes in the Premier League.
Iraola has said recently that he rates Brooks ‘very highly’, which hints at him playing a part in his plans next season, and ultimately slashes the chances of Southampton securing his signature.