SAINTS have terminated Mason Holgate's season long loan to allow him to join Sheffield United until the end of the season.

An agreement was reached between all parties to conclude the defender's loan early, allowing the him to make the switch back to the Premier League.

The 27 year old managed just five league appearances during his time at St Mary's, and will now look to earn a starting place at the Blades.

Speaking to the Daily Echo back in November, the former England youth international expressed his desire to play regularly. 

He has been limited to FA Cup appearances since then - with his last Saints outing coming in their 1-1 draw against Watford last Sunday.

Holgate's departure reduces the number of loan players in Russell Martin's squad to five, in line with the limit allowed in each matchday squad.

A statement on Southampton's club website added: "We thank Mason for his efforts during his time with us and wish him well for the future."

Born in Barnsley, a move to Sheffield United sees Holgate return to Yorkshire for the first time since leaving his boyhood club in 2015.

"I'm delighted to be here and to finally get it over the line," he explained in his first interview as a Sheffield United player.

"I've been waiting all month to get it sorted, obviously involving three teams, it is a little complicated but now we've got it to this point, I cannot wait to get going."

Despite a lack of minutes in the Championship, Holgate admitted he is excited to get going in a Blades shirt: "I feel good, sharp and ready to go," he continued.

"This is the best league in the world that's why everyone aspires to play in it, I've played in it a bit now and hopefully I can come in and help the boys.

"Chris (Wilder) has faith and believes in me, he has told me what he thinks I can add to the team and I think I can do that so it makes sense to make this happen."

Holgate becomes Sheffield United's third addition of the winter window, joining Ben Brereton Díaz and Ivo Grbić.

Blades boss Wilder was pleased to get the deal over the line, telling the club's website: "Mason's desire to come here and join our fight is huge for me.

"He's got a point to prove, he's a local lad who knows what Sheffield United are all about, he has his finger on the pulse and knows what to expect here.

"He's got valuable Premier League experience and can play all across the back which gives us options."