Jordy Clasie has declared that his move to Southampton is a "big step" in his career.
The 24-year-old secured a move to Ronald Koeman's men from Feyenoord for a fee in the region of £8m, as the club sought a replacement for Morgan Schneiderlin, who joined Manchester United earlier this week.
Clasie has revealed that his determination to play in the Premier League was the driving factor to seal his move to the Saints.
He told the club's official website: "It's a big step. Some people said to me that maybe it's too big, but I like it. For me, it's not difficult to come here. Every player has ambition, and for me England is the best league – that's why I came here.
"For me, I think this was the right time. I've played four years in the first team at Feyenoord and was at the club for 15 years. It was not easy for me to leave, but I felt this was the right moment.
"I spoke with my family and my girlfriend and we said together that this was the right moment. This club wanted me and the trainer spoke to me, and that feels good. It was not a problem for me to come here. From the first moment, it feels good."
Clasie has won 11 caps for the Netherlands.
Simon Sinclair
