Saint Davis Signs for Southampton

Southampton have signed Steven Davis on a three-year deal after the midfielder rejected the transfer of his contract to the newco Rangers.

Davis had been captain at Ibrox, but confirmed at the end of last month he would not be staying with the crisis-hit club as he wanted to play at the highest level possible.

The Northern Ireland international was reportedly being chased by clubs in Germany and Turkey, but has opted for a move to Premier League new boys Southampton.

The former Aston Villa and Fulham midfielder is looking forward to a fresh start and is hoping to play a big role for Saints, who are in the top flight following back-to-back promotions.

“I’m delighted to get everything done and dusted, and I’m looking forward to getting started,” Davis told the club’s official website.

“There was quite a bit of interest in me from other clubs but, after speaking to the chairman and the manager, I saw the level of ambition the club has shown.

“They’ve had a lot of success over the past couple of years to get to this stage and they don’t want to stand still, they want to keep moving forward, and that was a big thing for me.”

Saints boss Nigel Adkins was happy to land his second signing of the summer after previously bringing in striker Jay Rodriguez from Burnley.

Adkins said: “It’s very good and I’m very pleased.

“Obviously the work the club has gone and done to make it happen is really promising for the future.

“Steven’s an experienced player, a very talented football player who has played international football, captained his country, captained Rangers, and played in the Premier League, so he’s at a good age and comes with a wealth of experience as well.

“We work very hard behind the scenes and we’re delighted that the football club has managed to secure his services.”