IT JUST SAINT FAIR
Southampton release FIVE players after promotion to Premier League as Euro 2024 star becomes unemployed
Top-flight new boys make tough decision on stalwart - with two other long-serving stars 'in talks'
PROMOTED Southampton are offloading five players - including Scotland's Euro 2024 midfielder Stuart Armstrong.
The long-serving star won't be returning to the Premier League with the Saints following their Wembley play-off joy.
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The announcement comes just days before the 32-year-old takes part in only the Scots' third-ever Euros.
The Saints are also releasing Jake Vokins, Dynel Simeu, Matt Carson and Luke Pearce.
Armstrong has netted 50 goals in 214 appearances for Southampton since arriving from Celtic in 2018.
The former Dundee United ace, who has 50 caps, will depart St Mary's Stadium when his contract expires later this month.
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Southampton also revealed negotiations with two other club stalwarts are continuing - one being a Scotland team-mate of Armstrong.
Striker Che Adams, 27, has played 30 games for the Tartan Army.
Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, 34, is the second experienced player facing an uncertain future.
He won his only England cap in 2018, two years after joining the Saints from Crystal Palace.
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Southampton said the duo were "approaching the end of their contracts, with talks ongoing regarding potential new deals".
And of outgoing Armstrong, the south coast side added: "The club would like to thank Stuart for his commitment and effort during his time as a Saint, and we wish him the very best in whatever comes next."
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Russell Martin's men landed an instant return to the Prem with a 1-0 play-of final triumph over Leeds.
In fact, the victory helped ensure the name Armstrong will live long in the mind of Saints' supporters.
Stuart himself didn't play but namesake frontman Adam did - firing a clinical clincher on 24 minutes.
Russell Martin's managerial career
MK Dons (2019-21): 80 games, 30 wins, 19 draws, 31 losses - 37.5 win %
Swansea (2021 - 23): 99 games, 36 wins, 27 draws, 36 losses - 36 win %
Southampton (2023-present): 54 games, 30 wins, 11 draws, 13 losses - 55.5 win %
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