Southampton manager Russell Martin has commended Ronnie Edwards for his ‘amazing courage on the ball.’
Edwards left Peterborough United (Posh) for Southampton in a multi-million-pound deal, joining the team that earned promotion back to the Premier League last season. The 21-year-old signed a long-term contract with the Saints on Wednesday.
Southampton manager Russell Martin, a former Posh captain and promotion winner, witnessed Edwards’ impressive performance in the EFL Trophy Final against Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley last season.
“Ronnie is a supremely talented footballer with a lot of games already under his belt and a healthy level of experience, even at 21 years of age,” Martin said. “He shows amazing courage to play and possesses all the attributes we would look for in a young defender. He’s so excited for the opportunity to play in the Premier League and we can’t wait to get to work with him.”
Edwards expressed his excitement about moving to the Premier League after years of speculation and links to clubs like Spurs, West Ham United, and Newcastle United.
“I’m buzzing to be here,” Edwards told the Saints’ website. “It’s a massive club, and I can’t wait to get started. Obviously, they had an unbelievable season last year, and the manager seems like he’s got a great bunch of lads. They’ve got a real togetherness, and the style of play Southampton uses suits me best. The manager has a plan for me, and I think he can really progress my career and help me push on.
“It’s a dream come true to play in the Premier League for anyone, so I’ve got to be excited, and obviously, I’m looking forward to it.”
Southampton will open their Premier League season with a tough fixture at Newcastle United on August 17.