ALMOST exactly one year ago to the same date, James Ward-Prowse had signed a new five-year contract committing to a Saints future – but amid transfer noise he’s already topped that up with a new one of the same length, telling fans: “I was keen to put that to bed.”

Supporters might have been concerned about transfer rumours linking him to the likes of Aston Villa, with three key seniors having already departing the club the captain then following could be a death blow.

But it sounds like leaving was never an option for Ward-Prowse, 26, who has been at Saints since his early footballing years and will now eclipse 20 seasons at the club with this freshly signed deal.

Despite already having a contract that ran up to 2025, the central midfielder and set-piece wizard explained his decision to re-sign to supporters via the club website.

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He said: “Yeah incredibly positive, as I say it was the first time my name had been spoken about quite a bit and I was keen to put that to bed and sort everything out.

“It’s always been very positive, I’ve always had a great relationship with the club and this is another good statement I feel. I feel at home, I feel this is right and I’m excited for the next chapter for sure.

“It’s incredible, we’re sat here in the dome, somewhere I came as an eight-year-old. Quite a poignant moment for me to recognise the journey I’ve been on. To see some academy lads in here now, it’s crazy really you kind of have to pinch yourself to think about on the journey I’ve been on.

“It’s some time to reflect on the successes and difficult times I’ve had to get here, celebrate and enjoy the moment but more importantly get the head down and look forward to Sunday.”

Having made his senior league debut in the Premier League back during the 2012-13 season, Ward-Prowse and his family – including his wife, who he married this summer – are settled into a future in Southampton.

When asked if family plays a big role for his decision making, he admitted: “Huge.

"It’s quite rare to be at one club for such a long time, especially your hometown club, to be in and around my family is massively important, they’re everything to me.

“To have that part of my life settled, they were incredibly happy to hear the news last night that ill be here for a few more years.”

“I’m sat here a very proud man and eager for the challenges that lie ahead.”