Nathan Wood’s time at Hibs was a peculiar case to say the least.
The centre-back came north on loan from Middlesbrough in 2021 with a strong reputation behind him having captained England at youth level and tipped for a big future in the game.
Like we’ve seen so often with young players coming on loan from down south, he failed to make an impression and was sent back with his tail between his legs having played just once, a 3-0 defeat to Dundee United.
Hibees fans may have expected to see Wood fade into lower league obscurity but he has gradually built a strong career after signing for Swansea and impressing.
He is now playing in the Premier League for Southampton.
Nathan Wood of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Chelsea FC at St Mary's Stadium on December 04, 2024 in South...
Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images
Ex Hibs loanee Nathan Wood makes Premier League debut for Southampton
Any Hibs supporter watching Southampton’s home game against Chelsea last weekend may have had to do a double take.
That’s because the man who only managed one appearance for them when on loan lined up at the heart of their defence, although would go on to be part of a 5-1 defeat.
However, he kept his place for the next game against Aston Villa on Saturday, Southampton again on the losing side against John McGinn and co.
Despite his Easter Road failures, the 22-year-old would be snapped up by Swansea immediately after. Manager Russell Martin was a long-time admirer having tried to sign him for MK Dons before.
Wood quickly impressed and was a standout in a Swans team that were in the bottom half of the Championship in his first season.
He played 72 times across two seasons and did well enough to persuade Martin to sign him for Southampton after promotion to the Premier League, paying a reported £3million (BBC News).
Martin and Wood on defender’s first Southampton appearances
It took Wood time to get into the Saints team, featuring on the bench a few times but not even making squads most week.
But after playing in the last two games, he told the BBC: “I’ve come away from this week with playing two Premier League games – which is what I want – but not winning hurts.
“We’re never going to give up as a team. We’re really together and we keep battling no matter what. I don’t think you can ever question the commitment of the boys.
“The problem isn’t the philosophy or style – it’s the last bit. We need to score more goals. It feels like we’re so close, but we are a long way off [avoiding relegation].”
Martin insists Wood will be “excellent for him” no matter what division they play in next season.
He told the Daily Echo: “Woody defended some big actions on his own and in isolated areas incredibly well. I’m really pleased for him because it’s been a frustrating start to his career here.
“He’s had to be patient, but I think he’s shown all the reasons why he wanted to bring him in. Long term he’s going to be an excellent player for this club.
“Whether that is in the Championship or Premier League, whatever it is. He’s going to be an excellent addition.”
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