Southampton confirm loan signing of Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Maitland-Niles spent the second half of 2021-22 at Jose Mourinho’s Roma and the final half of the previous season on loan at West Brom.

The FA Cup winner with the Gunners has racked up 132 appearances for the North London outfit, after making his debut in the 2014-15 campaign.

Operating primarily as a midfielder, Maitland-Niles can also be deployed at either full-back position – as Ralph Hasenhuttl looks to bolster options across the field.

On his signing, manager Hasenhuttl said: “Ainsley is at a good point in his career, with a lot of experience already, but he is also still a young player with potential, and he is someone who can definitely help us.

“I think he fits well with us and can develop his game even further during his time here. He can also play in different positions, which is always a good thing, and I am pleased to welcome him as part of our squad.”

A product of the Arsenal academy, Maitland-Niles is accomplished as both a full-back and midfielder. He has made 132 appearances for the Gunners and has also represented England at all levels from Under-17s to the senior side, earning five full international caps.

Following his debut for Arsenal at 17, he spent the 2015-16 season on loan at Ipswich to gain valuable experience, before returning to establish himself as a regular in the London side’s squad.

Maitland-Niles was part of the team that won the 2020 FA Cup, starting the final against Chelsea, while he has also spent time on loan at West Brom and Roma over the past two seasons.

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