JELLE VAN DAMME produced a highly impressive Saints debut on Saturday.

The summer signing from Ajax is a physically imposing presence at left-back, but also showed his threat going forward with some excellent crossing.

Indeed, such is the quality of his delivery that manager Paul Sturrock admits he is undecided about how best to utilise the 6ft 4ins Belgian from set-pieces.

"He has shown us that he has got one sweet left for free-kicks and corners," said Sturrock.

"We have a dilemma at the moment over whether he takes them or gets in the box.

"I was pleased with him and thought his first 45 minutes with the club were very positive.

"He brings a naivety, but he is only 20 years old.

"The Dutch play completely different defensively and there are things to work on.

"But he has an enthusiasm to get forward, he's great in the air and he will do well for us in the coming years."

Van Damme said that playing his first game for Saints had been a moment to cherish.

"It is always something special to play your first few minutes for a new club," he said.

"I'm enjoying the last two or three weeks. I'm happy I made the choice to come over here.

"It is a nice club and great lads. It is a good group, I'm enjoying the training and everything about the club."

Van Damme demonstrated his ability to get forward down the left against the Swedish part-timers.

"When it is possible I come forward, you have to keep it in mind, but the first thing I must do is to defend," he said.

"I'm settling well in Southampton. For me, we go back Wednesday and Thursday I will see about buying a house."