History of the Southampton FC

Southampton FC is an English professional football club based in Southampton, Hampshire. The team plays its home games at St Mary's Stadium and competes in the Premier League. Founded as a church-affiliated sports team in 1885, Southampton has grown to become one of the most successful clubs within England’s top-flight competition over recent years.

The Saints have had a long and illustrious history since their formation 135 years ago. It has seen them compete for major honors domestically and abroad on numerous occasions throughout their tenure as members of the Football League system - including two FA Cup finals appearances (in 1900 & 1902). They were also founding members of Division Three South when it was formed in 1920, before being promoted to Division Two three times between 1921-1931; they eventually earned promotion into Division One following another third-place finish during the season 1931/32 campaign.

Since then, they have enjoyed several spells competing amongst Europe’s elite, having achieved promotion into the Premier League four times – with each spell lasting longer than any previous incarnation except for that first foray which lasted just one season! Their most successful period came during 2016/17 when they finished sixth overall – equalling their highest-ever league position achieved by finishing eighth during the 2003/04 campaign under Gordon Strachan’s management reign at St Mary's Stadium. This meant that not only did ‘the saints' qualify for the Europa League but also secured themselves a spot amongst Europe's finest teams again after more than 15 years of absence from the continental competition!

Overall though, despite some difficult periods along the way, Southampton has established itself within the upper echelons of the English football hierarchy over the past few decades or so thanks mainly to due efforts of players and staff alike who continue to strive for excellence every matchday to ensure success continues well future too!