SAINTS manager Ivan Juric labelled Welington "a good player" but believes the Brazilian must adapt to the speed of the Premier League.

The 24 year old has been substituted off by Juric at half-time of each of the last two matches against AFC Bournemouth and Brighton.

Welington has impressed since making his debut in the 2-1 win at Ipswich Town but the former São Paulo man's starting role is not guaranteed.

Juric was asked why he had withdrawn Welington early in successive games and confirmed there are no injury concerns with the full-back.

"I have a feeling with him, and I think he's agreed, that the difference, coming in January, between Brazil and the Premier League is huge," said Juric.

"I think he does things not fast enough for the Premier League. He's used to it that he stops the ball, he moves the ball, but here there is no time.

"When they are attacking, there is no time. He's struggling with that. I think he's a good player, but normally he's suffering."

Welington has already featured as a wing-back and as a left-centre-back for Juric since arriving at the club on a free transfer last month.

He penned a pre-contract agreement in July last year and landed at St Mary's following the expiry of his deal at São Paulo in Brazil.

Former youth international Welington has started each of the last four fixtures and could be called upon again when Saints visit Chelsea on Tuesday.