Saints owner Dragan Solak described the club’s victory over West Brom as “super special” after they secured a spot in the Championship playoff final. Solak, the lead investor in Sport Republic, attended the match at St Mary’s Stadium, where Russell Martin’s side triumphed 3-1 over the Baggies.

This win brings Southampton one step closer to a Premier League return, backed by over £200 million in investments from their new ownership group amidst challenging financial conditions. Solak praised the efforts behind the scenes that created an optimal atmosphere for the team, both before and during the match.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo, Solak said, “It’s super special and it’s special because we see the happy faces. For the Southampton fans and for me, it’s an unbelievable feeling. We knew we needed to match the energy of West Brom’s fans, and I think Phil Parsons and the rest of the management put in a huge effort. The fans responded amazingly, and it was unbelievable.”

Thousands of Saints fans lined the streets, displaying the club’s colors and clutching pyrotechnics to welcome the team bus. Southampton will face Leeds United, who finished third, at Wembley on Sunday, May 26, with a Premier League spot at stake.

Solak conveyed a simple message to the players and supporters ahead of the crucial match, which carries significant financial rewards exceeding £150 million. He said, “I can only hope they do what they did tonight. That is to put their best effort out there and leave their hearts on the field. We’ll be there for them, and let’s hope for the best.”

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