DavidWelsh midfielder David Brooks has joined Southampton on-loan from fellow South coast side, Bournemouth. Brooks be hoping to get regular first team action while with the Saints.
Brooks, now 26, joins the Saints from Premier League side Bournemouth with no option or obligation to buy him. The former Sheffield United man will be back fighting for a starting spot with the Cherries in the 2024/25 season.
His game time this season has been limited, playing just 13 times in the league. However, he played a key role in the club’s recent FA Cup victory over Swansea City, scoring one and assisting two.
“I think he’s one of the best players that I’ve played with” ❤️
Alex Scott on David Brooks 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/50VnLVNUgv
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) January 26, 2024
The decision will please Brooks, who made his desire for more first team action clear to the club this month. Bournemouth CEO Neill Blake discussed this with the club’s website:
“Having discussed David’s situation with him this month, and taking into account his desire to be playing more minutes of first-team football, we have accepted his request to authorise such a move.
“There has been a certain level of reluctance on our part, as David means a great deal to us all at the club. It is because of this that we respect his wishes, and look forward to his return where he will continue to be a valuable asset to our squad, hopefully for many years to come.”
Brooks overcoming adversity
Brooks has only been back with the Bournemouth first team for just under a year. He was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in October 2021. After confirming in May 2022 he was clear of cancer, he made his return to first team action in March 2023.
Since returning to football, he has featured heavily as a substitute for Bournemouth. The loan move to Southampton will offer Brooks the chance to play more first team minutes after what has been a difficult few years for the midfielder.
It’s also a good move for Southampton, who are battling for promotion back to the Premier League from the Championship. After seeing how he ripped apart the Swansea defence in the FA Cup, Russell Martin will be keen to get David Brooks into his Southampton as soon as possible.
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