'Suits me the best' - Saints signing Edwards insists Martin 'has plan' for him

DEFENDER Ronnie Edwards believes Saints manager Russell Martin "has got a plan" for him as he pens a long-term contract at the club.

The 21 year old's move from Peterborough on a four-year deal was confirmed on Wednesday, meeting his teammates for the start of pre-season.

Former Barnet man Edwards has already made 142 senior appearances since making his debut at Posh when he was just 17 years old.

He now steps up to the Premier League for the first time amid interest from several clubs with 12 months left on his Peterborough deal.

Asked to explain his decision, Edwards said: "The manager seems like he’s got a great bunch of lads and they’ve got a real togetherness.

Ronnie Edwards helped Peterborough to lift last season's EFL Trophy (Image: PA)

"The style of play that Southampton plays suits me the best and I think he’s got a plan for me.

"Like I said, the style of play that he plays suits me to a tee and I think he can really progress me in my career and push on.”

He added: "Bringing the ball out from the back, playing nice football and I think the right way to play football.

"It's really positive. Building attacks, starting from the back and finishing at the top end of the pitch."

Saints had confirmed the additions of Adam Lallana, 36, and Charlie Taylor, 30, on free transfers earlier in the window.

Martin is keen to add a blend of experience and exuberance this summer with Swansea City's Nathan Wood, 22, expected to sign this week.

Edwards said: "It doesn’t matter how young you are nowadays. There’s a lot of young talent that everyone knows about, so it’s good having a mixture of both.

“I’m excited to get going. I’m buzzing to meet the boys, to get to know them all, to have a good pre-season and kick on.”

"The first aim of mine is to make a Premier League debut but I haven't set myself any targets yet so we will take it from there."

Edwards is an England youth international, starting at centre-back as the country won the Under-19 European Championships in 2022.

He has also played at the Under-20 World Cup and shared the pitch with Saints winger Sam Edozie, 21, at that tournament.

Edwards recalled: "I think it's probably the proudest moment so far for me, playing for your country is a dream and to be able to do that was amazing.

"I haven't yet spoken to Sam but having played with him with England, I know that he is an unbelievable player."