Joe Aribo has vowed to “embrace the moment” of his first Premier League campaign, as he hopes to help push Saints into Europe.
The summer signing made the move from Scottish giants Rangers to join Saints earlier this month, for a reported initial £6million.
During his time at Ibrox, the versatile midfielder helped the Glasgow side lift the Scottish Premiership title, as well as secure the Scottish Cup. He also scored in last season’s Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt.
But having secured a new challenge with Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side this summer, Nigeria international Aribo insisted the draw of the Premier League always matched his ambition.
Speaking about his move, Aribo said: “Rangers are a massive club and it was amazing being there from minute one.
“It was a really hard decision for me but my aim was always to play in the Premier League because it’s the best league in the world.
“It’s always been a goal for me to reach that and so I had to take that opportunity.”
Aribo played 60 minutes of Saints’ pre-season Friendly against RB Leipzig on Saturday, before also featuring in the second half against Klagenfurt on Monday night.
With the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and Chelsea all to come in August, Aribo is relishing the challenge that lies ahead for his new club.
He said: “For me, I feel excitement. I’m not really a nervous player anymore, I used to be at times but now I just embrace the moment and embrace the occasion and I’m excited to get going and I can’t wait.”
He added: “We want to push and we want to fight.
“We want to get ourselves into the top half of the table and push for Europe, that’s the aim.
“We need to give our best and do what we can as a team because we’re on a good journey here and I’m excited for what’s to come, so let’s see where that takes us.”
Saints make the trip to Wealdstone to take on Championship Watford in a friendly on Saturday (3pm).
