Matt Le Tissier returns to Southampton as advisor
Matt Le Tissier has returned to Southampton in a formal capacity, appointed as an advisor to the board, four years after stepping down from his ambassador role amid criticism over his social media posts, reports BritPanorama.
The 57-year-old club legend had been providing informal support to the Saints before this official announcement, according to the Daily Echo. Le Tissier’s departure from St. Mary’s occurred in April 2022 following backlash over posts he made on X regarding the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
His posts, which included claims about “the media” lying concerning “weapons of mass destruction and COVID,” sparked condemnation from several high-profile figures, including Gary Lineker and comedian David Baddiel. These reactions ultimately led to his exit from the club he once served so long and faithfully.
During his career, Le Tissier scored 209 goals in 462 appearances for the club between 1986 and 2002, making him Southampton’s all-time leading scorer in the Premier League era. He was also the league’s first midfielder to reach a century of goals, finishing with 101 in 270 top-flight matches. Le Tissier earned eight caps for England before a brief spell with non-league Eastleigh.
Currently, Southampton find themselves seventh in the Championship after relegation from the Premier League last season. They are just a point behind the playoff positions, holding a game in hand on the teams above them. Under manager Tonda Eckert, the team has remained unbeaten in their last 14 matches across all competitions and will face Premier League leaders Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-final tonight, a match that could further define their resurgence.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm, as Southampton aims to keep their cup campaign alive, marking a pivotal moment for both the club and its returning hero.
