A promising Southampton academy product, Callum Slattery has long been a player to watch. Now, for the first time, the 20-year-old Englishman will get a chance to earn regular first-team minutes. Slattery has officially joined Dutch second-tier side De Graafschap on loan for the remainder of the season.
Callum Slattery Loaned to De Graafschap from Southampton
A Consistent Force in the Saints Youth Teams
A Southampton academy product, Slattery has continually worked his up the ranks at the South Coast club. Joining the Saints U18 side as a 16-year-old back in 2015, the young Englishman immediately impressed. Joining the U23’s soon after, Slattery has become a consistent force on the pitch at Staplewood.
Making 71 appearances for the Southampton U23’s, Callum Slattery has shown an extreme amount of promise. Capable of playing many different positions, Slattery has the ability and focus to contribute on both ends of the pitch.
The soon to be 21-year-old midfielder departs Southampton for the first time in his career. However, unlike many of Southampton’s other on loan youth players, Slattery will also be changing country. Heading to the Netherlands, Slattery will have the chance to continue his growth in one of the best development nations on the planet.
Dutch Move Presents Huge Development Potential
Renowned for their constant stream of star players, the Netherlands have continually taken youngsters and turned them into great footballers. A bright prospect at Southampton, the Englishman did make three first-team appearances for the club last season. However, Slattery’s status at the club could go supernova based on the outcome of this loan move.
Joining a club that is currently placed third in the Dutch second tier, Slattery will also get the chance to experience an extremely competitive atmosphere at De Graafschap. Relegated from the Eredivisie last season, the Super Farmers are attempting to make their stay in the Eerste Divisie a short one.
With promotion back to the Eredivisie on the cards for De Graafschap, Slattery’s stay at the club will be all the better. Forced to earn his role at his new club, Slattery will need to step up and perform from day one. Battling against other promotion seeking sides, Slattery will also earn some valuable mental experience due to the strain such a battle can create.
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