Tom Barclay reckons that Fraser Forster has impressed Ralph Hasenhuttl with his attitude and application since returning from Celtic.

The goalkeeper spent the 2019-2020 season on loan in the Scottish Premiership but earned his place back in the Saints squad last season after Angus Gunn joined Stoke on loan.

What's the latest news with Forster?

It's been a testing few years for the 33-year-old, who's gone from being in the England squad less than four years ago and a number one at club level, to a back-up goalkeeper at best now.

Since being dropped in December 2017, Forster has made just nine appearances in the Premier League and is firmly behind Alex McCarthy in the pecking order.

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ENTER GIVEAWAY

His situation saw him loaned out to Celtic two seasons ago and even though he returned to St Mary's, he was only there to provide competition for McCarthy.

But Forster worked his way into the team during the back end of last season, starting seven of the final 13 Premier League games, although his only clean sheet came against rock-bottom Sheffield United.

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Forster's frustrations have returned this season, though, and he's yet to start a league game, with his only two outings coming in the Carabao Cup.

Despite his lack of opportunities, Barclay believes Forster's professionalism has pleased the Southampton boss.

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What did Barclay say?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "So, the Southampton goalkeeping situation, they've got Forster and McCarthy, who are both out of contract in the summer.

"Forster is one of the big earners at the club, he obviously came back from his loan at Celtic and fought his way back into the team. He's impressed Ralph the way he's gone about his business and attitude."

Will Forster leave Southampton?

For two reasons, Forster's career on the South Coast appears to be drawing to a close.

Not only will Forster most likely be hoping to spend the final few years of his career as a number one goalkeeper, but his contract with the club runs out, which could see him depart in January if Southampton want to get a fee for him or let him leave for nothing this summer.

Furthermore, as Barclay revealed, Forster is one of the highest earners at the club, which shouldn't be the case for a back-up goalkeeper.