NEW signing Lesley Ugochukwu admitted joining Saints is a "great opportunity" following confirmation of his loan arrival from Chelsea.

The 20 year old French midfielder has joined the club on a season-long loan deal and adds further quality to Russell Martin's midfield.

Ugochukwu already has experience playing in the Premier League during his first season at Chelsea - and has made over 50 appearances in Ligue 1.

Having suffered injury issues which kept him away from match action last season, Ugochukwu revealed he was keen to increase his game time this year.

Speaking in his first Saints interview, he said: "I had an injury last season that kept me outside of the pitch. This season, I wanted to experience and play more minutes.

"I said that (joining) Southampton is a great opportunity for me to show myself. I've had the opportunity in the Champions League with Rennes.

"I had a couple of games in the Europa League. I have some experience. Even last season, being at a big club like Chelsea made me feel what is the highest level.

"I know what to do and I think I am now here to work really hard and give everything for the fans and for myself."

He continued: "The Premier League is the best league in the world. Every player wants to come over here and play.

"I had some games last season. I'm pretty sure that here with the lads we will do some great things. I will learn from them and I hope they will learn from me as well.

"(The style of play) suits me a lot. I like to have the ball. I saw what the team did last season, they are a very possession-based team.

"That is what I like and I think it suits me a lot. I'm very excited. I can't wait to see the lads, meet the fans and see the stadium."