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Romelu Lukaku isn't the only Chelsea player departing today: Southampton FC have announced the capture of left back Ryan Bertrand on a season-long loan deal as well.
We are delighted to welcome @ryanbertrand3 to #SaintsFC on a season-long loan from @chelseafc. #SaintRyan pic.twitter.com/ZEESjGZEi1
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) July 30, 2014
Bertrand had no place at Chelsea following the signing of Filipe Luis from Atletico Madrid, and I'm actually a little bit surprised that he didn't get a permanent transfer this summer. From Southampton's perspective, the deal makes total sense. Bertrand's not in Luke Shaw's class, but he replaces him fairly neatly on that left flank, and if he has a good season he'll probably be able to stay on a more permanent basis for not-very-much money.
There's not much to say apart from the fact that I don't expect Bertrand to ever play for the club again. Considering he started a Champions League final for us, that's a bit of a shame, but it's been a long time since the fans had big hopes for him, and now we just have to wish him the best.