NATHAN Redmond explained his chance meeting with icon David Beckham and opened up on how he had “other options” ahead of joining Besiktas.

The 28-year-old departed St Mary’s after six years of service and linked with former England teammate Dele Alli in Turkey.

Ahead of completing his permanent move and signing a one-year deal at the giants, Redmond caused a social media stir with a picture with the Three Lions legend at the airport before departure.

Beckham, who is a 115-cap international and six-time Premier League winner, offered the outgoing Saints attacker some advice for the continent, having played at the likes of Real Madrid, AC Milan and PSG.

“We bumped into each other at the airport in England, he was flying somewhere else. I explained to him what was happening and where I was going,” Redmond told Besiktas' media.

“He told me some of his best times were playing in foreign countries. He gave me some advice and told me to enjoy the experience.”

As well as 232 Saints appearances in all competitions, Redmond can boast 264 Premier League matches and 28 goals to his name.

He could yet return to England’s top-flight next season, admitting to play in the Premier League as much as he can has always been his aim.

“It’s gone very quickly, 250 games. I think it’s something that I always wanted to do, to play in the Premier League for as long as possible,” Redmond said.

“If you’re a kid in England, it’s just like here in Turkey – you want to play for the big clubs, in the top league and fortunately I’ve been able to do that.

“But it’s time for a new challenge, and I’m looking forward to it. I hope I settle in quickly. It was a new challenge, my time at Southampton was coming to an end and everyone can see that.

“I wanted to try something new and I don’t think there was a better club to come here and do that, I had other options but on every level I don’t think many of them ticked all the boxes. I’m thankful that Besiktas did.”

Redmond could make his Besiktas debut when they host Basaksehir on Monday, September 15 (5PM).

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