Tyler Dibling sends two-word message as Southampton deal agreed
Tyler Dibling has sent a message to former teammate Cameron Bragg after he agreed to a contract extension at Southampton.
Everton signed Dibling from Southampton in the summer, agreeing a deal worth around £40million for the teenager.
The winger enjoyed a breakout Premier League season for the Saints, and had attracted interest from several clubs following his team’s relegation.
Dibling is Everton’s third most expensive signing ever, underlining the belief that decision-makers at the Hill Dickinson Stadium have in him.
But since making the move, Dibling has struggled to find a consistent role at Everton, with David Moyes handing the 19-year-old just 20 minutes of action since October.
Tyler Dibling sends Cameron Bragg message as agreement found
Southampton sacked Will Still at the start of November, after a shocking start to the Championship season.
Under-21s manager Tonda Eckert took over as interim manager following the departure, but the 32-year-old’s start was so impressive that he has now been handed the job permanently.
The Saints won four consecutive Championship games in the German’s first matches, and have won two from three since he was named head coach.
The introduction of youth has been part of the former Genoa assistant’s tweaks, with Bragg among the players to benefit.
The 20-year-old has made four Championship appearances in recent weeks, and was rewarded with a new two-year contract extension last week.
The midfielder took to Instagram to share a picture following the announcement, with Dibling commenting “let’s go”, in a message accompanied by heart emojis.
The pair played together at the academy level for Southampton, and undoubtedly shared the pitch on many occasions.
Bragg remarks on ‘incredible’ development
A deep-lying midfielder, Bragg has caught eyes for his ability to win the ball back and spread the play.
The Scotland youth international was handed his first start in the win over Charlton last month and left a superb impression.
The 20-year-old made more tackles than anyone else, completed all but two of his passes, and even created two chances.
| Cameron Bragg | vs Charlton (A) |
| Minutes played | 76 |
| Accurate passes | 44/46 |
| Chances created | 2 |
| Tackles | 6 |
| Duels won | 8/11 |
Speaking to Southampton after signing his new deal, Bragg said: “It’s been incredible. I think I’m still trying to find my feet a little bit with it all and just really get used to what this is now.
“Like I said, it’s been unreal, and everyone’s welcomed me in [to the first team] so well. I feel really comfortable.”
Bragg came off the bench in Saturday’s defeat to Norwich City, and the midfielder is expected to maintain a prominent role in the coming months.