Southampton have brought their first close season signing to the club. He is Swedish international Michael Svensson. It has been rumoured that the central defender was due to sign for the last couple of weeks, a fact which annoyed chairman Rupert Lowe. The club try to keep their dealing as quiet as possible to avoid rival bids, but Svensson successfully signed up today. The twenty six year old was at the world cup, although he didn't play, and will join up with fellow Swede Anders Svensson for next season.
Michael Svensson is obviously keen to impress the fans and coach and push the side forward. He said: "I am really excited. It has always been my dream to play in the Premiership and I know from talking to Anders that Southampton is a really good club. There are good coaches and players here and he told me it is a nice city a friendly place. I have only been here a day but my first impression confirms that.
"The stadium is fabulous and it has obviously given the club a big boost in the right direction. They have a stable team in the Premier League and it is one which could climb higher and progress. I hope I can be part of that and I cannot wait to get going."
On his ability, Swedish journalist Marcus Torngren said: "Michael Svensson is a typical English centre-half. He is perfect for the Premiership. He is tall, a very good header of the ball but passing is not his strong point."
Of his new player Gordon Strachan said: "I am looking forward to working with Michael next season. He will broaden my defensive options and strengthen a squad which already has some first class professionals."
Chairman Rupert Lowe added: "I met with Michael yesterday and was very impressed with his professional attitude. I look forward to working with him and all our staff to build on the success of last season."
"He is a very nice lad - but on the field he has a competitive and aggressive streak which has earned him the nickname of Michael the Killer!
"I like that. It is important to have players with that hunger and desire to win and he hates to lose. He is the right age and height, he is wiry, strong and very good in the air.
"He has improved on the ground over the past year and although he did not play in the World Cup finals, you do not get in the 23 if you do not have something about you."