Adams: I can't wait to get going

The 22-year-old forward became one of the most sought-after players in England following his 22-goal haul for the Blues in the Championship in 2018/19.

But while many clubs were credited with an interest, Saints’ philosophy of giving young talent a chance, something that is embodied by manager Ralph Hasenhüttl, made it an easy decision to sign at St Mary’s.

“I’m delighted that it has all gone through. There was interest in January but it didn’t quite go through but I’m happy now it has,” Adams began.

"You can see with the track history – the amount of young players they’re playing, the gaffer’s belief in the young players, the squad in itself – where the club is going to be. I want to be part of that.

“That’s something I noticed straight away. Even watching from the side when I was at Birmingham and I was watching Southampton play, I liked what Ralph did so when the opportunity came up I couldn’t say no.”

Having worked his way up through the divisions from playing non-league football, Adams’ stellar campaign last time out saw him named in the Championship Team of the Season as well as being nominated for the Player of the Season award.

it's about proving myself again and proving to my teammates i can play with them and we can make something happen.

che adams
on joining saints

Now he is looking forward to joining up with his teammates and making his mark on the Premier League.

He added: “It was a massive season for me last year and obviously Southampton have picked up on that and added me into the squad. I’m delighted with that and I can’t wait to get going.

“It’s a new step and there’s different players who I haven’t played with but I can’t wait for the challenge.

“It’s about proving myself again and proving to my teammates that I can play with them and we can make something happen.”