Scotland striker Ross Stewart released by Southampton ahead of World Cup

Scotland striker Ross Stewart has been released by Southampton, the Championship club confirmed, as he prepares to feature in the 2026 World Cup. The 29-year-old's contract was not extended, ending his two-year stay at St Mary's.

Stewart joined Southampton in 2023 and scored 12 goals in 50 appearances for the Saints. He now turns his attention to Scotland's World Cup group stage opener against Haiti this weekend, with further matches against Morocco and Brazil to follow.

The striker has earned three caps for his country but is yet to score his first international goal. His departure is part of a wider clear-out at Southampton, with several other players also leaving the club.

Other departures from St Mary's

• Oriol Romeu – midfielder who had a second spell at the club, departing after limited appearances last season.
• Will Smallbone – Republic of Ireland international who spent 18 years at Southampton, making 90 first-team appearances and winning the 2024 Championship play-off final.
• Alex McCarthy – goalkeeper who leaves after a decade at the club, with 165 appearances and a role in promotion to the Premier League.
• Joe Aribo – midfielder who made 11 appearances over four years, including a loan spell at Leicester City.
• Jamie Jones and Charlie Taylor – also departing upon contract expiry.

In a statement, Southampton thanked the departing players for their 'effort and commitment' and wished them well for the future. Stewart will now seek a new club after the World Cup.