Saints Sign Belgian Winger

Posted on: Sat 23 Jul 2011

Saints are delighted to announce that they have today completed the signing of Belgian winger Steve De Ridder for a significant undisclosed fee.

The 24 year old arrives from top flight Dutch side De Graafschap, and is somewhat of a coup for the Club, as a host of top flight European sides were also chasing the winger’s signature.

A right footed attacking player who can play naturally on either wing, De Ridder arrives at St Mary’s having signed a three year contract, and will offer the squad some proven top flight experience in the wing areas.

De Ridder – which translates to “The Knight” – has become a firm fans favourite during his time with De Graafschap, and is known for his lightening quick speed, tremendous crossing ability and tendency to score remarkable goals.

Speaking exclusively to Saints Player De Ridder explained that he was delighted to have made the switch to Southampton.

“I have got a great first impression about this Club, I have already been treated so well since I arrived and it has given me a lot of confidence. I hope to pay that back on the field.

“As soon as I arrived here I was convinced that this was the right move, this is a big adventure for me and I am looking forward to it. The Chairman showed me a video all about the Club and I was sold straight away.

“I played with Jan-Paul Saeijs in Holland and he told me that when he was here it was the best time of his life, so I am curious about what is in store for me!”

Manager Nigel Adkins was equally satisfied to have completed the deal.

“Steve is a young, hungry player who wants to keep developing and that is what attracted us to him. He is an attacking player who has played on both flanks and up top and has the ability to make things happen.

“From what we can see his attitude is very good and he desperately wants to maximise his potential, which is underlined by his industrious style of play.

“The thing that struck me about him was that he was so hungry for success and respectful of where he is coming to. Steve wants to work hard to be part of the group of players that we have here and has bought in to the vision of where we are going.

“All credit to Nicola because he has worked really hard behind the scenes to get the deal completed.”