The former Sunderland hitman, who inked a three-year contract on the final day, has been out with an Achilles injury since January.
Che Adams now has competition from Scottish international Stewart, who scored 40 goals in 80 games for the Black Cats previously.
Stewart stated of his rehabilitation when speaking to the club website: “It’s progressing nicely. Ideally, I won’t be too far away.
Stewart stated of his rehabilitation when speaking to the club website: “It’s progressing nicely. Ideally, I won’t be too far away.
“It’s definitely the closest I’ve felt to being back in a long time, whether it’s been six or seven months. Hopefully, the games are approaching, and I am eager to return.
Stewart went on to say that Southampton is a huge club, which helped him decide to go from the northeast to the south.
“In recent years, it has been a Premier League club, and for me, it’s a great challenge to come down here and play football for a team that’s going to be competing at the top of the league.”
“I know the goal will be to return there, and because one of my personal goals is to play in the Premier League, I believed it was the ideal fit.
Since Russell Martin was the manager of MK Dons, it goes without saying that we had previously spoken. His sides are very difficult to play against and play excellent football.
Saints and manager Martin have been keen to add knowhow to their squad and signed last season’s Championship winner, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, to bolster the defence.
“Everything he said to me was really encouraging, which usually helps with decisions. I’ve been wanting to relocate here ever since he and Jason (Wilcox) started talking, so I’m thrilled to be here.
Although Stewart has visited the hospital, his 13 goals in 10 Championship games provide him Football League experience.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis, the Championship winner from last season, was hired by Saints and manager Martin to strengthen the defense as part of their desire to bring expertise to their team.
Stewart played all 49 games of the 2021–22 League One season, appearing in all of them, and he scored 26 goals, one of which came in the playoff final, demonstrating his resilience.
It will be really helpful, he declared. “I believe the number of games I played throughout that season and being around a successful team. It’s definitely the case here, let’s hope it is.
“It’ll be helpful. We want to challenge this team for first place in the league and help it return to the Premier League, where it belongs.
“Having accomplished that in League One, I hope to repeat it here, and I’ll do everything in my power to make that happen. I’m hoping I can join the team and contribute positively.