Southampton FC history reflects the proud journey of a club known for resilience and talent. Founded in 1885, Southampton Football Club has produced many iconic Southampton FC players and memorable moments. From local beginnings to Premier League battles, the Saints’ story is one of dedication, passion, and continuous pursuit of football excellence.
Southampton FC Origin
Founded
1885
Location
Southampton, Hampshire
Team History
1897 - Present / Southampton Football Club
1894 - 1897 / Southampton St. Mary's
1888 - 1894 / St. Mary's Football Club
1885 - 1888 / St. Mary's Young Men's Association Football Club
Nickname
The Saints
Southampton’s nickname also pays close attention to their roots. The team was founded in 1885 by the young men at St Mary’s Church – and to this day they are known as "The Saints." The church is still standing and is only a few minutes’ walk from the ground.
Championships
Premier League / 0
FA Cup / 1
1976
Premier League - FA Cup Double / 0
Stadium
2001 - Present / St Mary's Stadium
1898 - 2001 / Dell
1896 - 1898 / County Cricket Ground
1886 - 1896 / Antelope Cricket Ground
1885 - 1886 / The Common
Current Owner
2017 - Present / Lander Sports Investment
*Blue is this team’s history
- 1885
- 1976
- 2001
- 2003
- 2012
- 2020
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St Mary’s Renamed to Southampton FC in 1885
For the start of their League career, Saints signed several new players on professional contracts, including Charles Baker, Alf Littlehales, and Lachie Thomson from Stoke and Fred Hollands from Millwall. After winning the Southern League title in 1896 – 1997, the club became a limited company and was renamed Southampton F.C. Southampton won the Southern League championship for three years ... -
The Saints Win FA Cup in 1976
Under McMenemy’s management, Saints started to rebuild in the Second Division, capturing players such as Peter Osgood, Jim McCalliog, Jim Steele, and Peter Rodrigues (captain) and in 1976, Southampton reached the FA Cup Final, playing Manchester United at Wembley, and beat much-fancied United 1–0 with a goal from Bobby Stokes. -
Southampton moved to their new home, St Mary’s Stadium
2001–02: Southampton moved to their new home, St Mary’s Stadium, after 103 years at The Dell. They finished 11th in the Premier League under manager Gordon Strachan, who took over from Stuart Gray in October 2001. They were eliminated from both cup competitions in the third round, losing to Rotherham United and Blackburn Rovers. -
Southampton reached FA Cup final
2002–03: Southampton achieved their highest Premier League finish of eighth place, and also reached their first FA Cup final since 1976, losing 1–0 to Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium. They were knocked out of the League Cup in the fourth round by Manchester City. James Beattie was their top scorer with 23 goals in all competitions. -
Southampton clinch promotion to Premier League
In 2012: Southampton achieved back-to-back promotions, finishing second in the Championship and returning to the Premier League after seven years. They reached the fourth round of both cup competitions, losing to Millwall and Crystal Palace. Rickie Lambert was their top scorer with 31 goals in all competitions. -
Stuart Armstrong – President’s Choice Award
Stuart Armstrong: The Scottish midfielder was a versatile and creative player for Southampton, playing in various positions across the midfield and attack. He scored 19 goals and provided 15 assists in 169 appearances in all competitions. He won the President’s Choice Award in 2019–20.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Southampton FC History
Southampton Football Club, widely known as Southampton FC, has a proud and enduring legacy in English football. Founded in 1885 as a church football team under St. Mary’s Church of England Young Men’s Association, the club has grown into a respected name in the Premier League. Over the decades, Southampton FC history has been filled with triumphs, challenges, and memorable moments that define the club’s identity.
The Saints began their football journey in local competitions before joining the Southern League in 1894, where they quickly established themselves as a powerhouse. By the turn of the century, Southampton Football Club reached the FA Cup finals twice (1900 and 1902), marking their early national prominence. They were later founding members of Division Three South in 1920 and gradually worked their way up to higher divisions. Their promotion to Division One in 1966 marked a historic milestone in Southampton FC history, solidifying their place among England’s elite teams.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Southampton FC players made significant impacts on both domestic and European football. The arrival of world-class talents like Alan Ball, Kevin Keegan, and Matt Le Tissier elevated the club’s profile. Their attacking style and loyal fan support made the Saints a feared opponent across the league. In the 1983–84 season, they achieved their best-ever First Division finish as runners-up under Lawrie McMenemy, narrowly missing out on the league title.
Southampton Achievements
In modern times, Southampton Football Club has maintained its tradition of developing top talent through its academy, producing exceptional Southampton FC players like Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott, and Luke Shaw. The club’s return to the Premier League in 2012 reignited their competitive spirit. Under Mauricio Pochettino and later Ronald Koeman, Southampton became known for disciplined football and consistent top-half finishes, even qualifying for the UEFA Europa League.
Over the years, Southampton FC has earned a reputation for perseverance and success. The Saints have won the FA Cup once (1976) and finished runners-up in the EFL Cup in 2017. They have also maintained strong performances across various divisions, earning respect for their consistent growth and commitment to youth development.
1976 FA Cup Triumph
One of the greatest moments in Southampton FC history came in 1976 when the club won its first-ever FA Cup. Managed by Lawrie McMenemy, the Saints defeated the mighty Manchester United 1–0, thanks to Bobby Stokes’ unforgettable goal. This victory remains one of the most iconic achievements for Southampton Football Club, symbolizing their underdog spirit and resilience that continues to inspire generations of Southampton FC players and fans alike.
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