Rodriguez commits to Saints

Jay Rodriguez has ended speculation over his future by signing a new and improved four-year contract at Southampton.

A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament means it has been over a year since the 25-year-old last played, but that has not prevented the likes of Tottenham, Manchester City and Liverpool being linked with a summer move.

Rodriguez's contract was due to expire next year, but the England international has now penned an extension taking him through to 2019.

Rodriguez told the club's website: "I'm delighted. It's a great club and we've done amazingly this year. It's been a tough year for myself being out, but I'm really delighted to sign the contract. It's now about looking forward to the future.

"The medical staff have all worked tirelessly with me, so this is great news. I just want to carry on improving now and to try to get some game time."

Ronald Koeman added: "This is very good news for the club because there was some speculation about Jay and interest from other big clubs, so it is a compliment to the club that we have an agreement. 

"It has been a difficult time for Jay who has been doing everything to come back in a good shape. It's a good start to the summer business for us because it shows that everyone here is convinced by what we want to achieve."