Ainsley Maitland-Niles came on loan to Southampton with the pedigree of being an England international (five caps) and a reputation as being a versatile players who could play in defence or in midfield. Ralph Hasenhuttl had long been a rumoured admirer but the season started badly, the manager departed and Ainsley never nailed down a regular slot in what quickly became a struggling side. 16 starts was a reflection of his inconsistent – some would say laboured approach – to the requirements of a team that were drowning in poor results. There was little enthusiasm, come relegation, to pursue any thoughts of a permanent move even though he was now a free agent as his Arsenal contract had expired. He ended up signing a four-year contract in France.