Marek Saganowski thanked Saints boss George Burley for making him feel wanted at St Mary's.
The Polish striker found himself frozen out of the first team picture at former club Troyes after the French second division club changed manager.
Despite costing Troyes £1m from Portuguese side Guimares last summer, Saganowski made just six substitute appearances without scoring and was mainly restricted to reserve football.
Saganowski's situation in France was in stark contrast to how he found life at Saints where he bagged 10 goals in just 11 starts plus two sub appearances after joining on loan in January.
And Saganowski paid credit Burley for helping bring about the sensational change in his fortunes.
He said: "After Troyes, I came here in January. Saints called me and said come here and we will see what happens'.
"When I came to Southampton George Burley gave me a chance and I feel wanted.
"I was grateful for that and if you feel a coach believes in you, then it gives you a lift mentally and makes you more confident".
Full interview in today's Daily Echo.
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