Hoedt: ‘I’m happy to be here’

Southampton’s newest signing Wesley Hoedt is ready to test his game against the top talent the Premier League has to offer.

“The Premier League is the biggest competition in the world,” Hoedt said. “I am happy to be here and to show what I am capable of in the Premier League.”

The 23-year-old defender completed his transfer from Lazio, where he spent to two seasons, to Southampton for a reported fee of £15m.

Hoedt made 21 starts last season in Serie A, in which Lazio placed fifth, and his effort has led to participation with the Dutch National Team.

“I want to grow alongside the club,” he said. “But the first thing that is important is to start playing, adapt to the league and we will see how far we can go.”

Self-described as a physical defender with ability on the ball as well, Hoedt has backed up his qualities with an aerial success rate of over 86 per cent in 2016/17 with Lazio.

Hoedt added, “Southampton is a really big club so the next step for me is to come here and try to help in the best way that I can.”