Southampton FC announced two individual player signings today. The first is backup goalkeeper Stuart Taylor, who penned a one-year deal. The second transaction is a much bigger deal. Portugese right-back Cédric, fresh off a Euro 2016 win, has signed a new four-year contract that will keep him at St Mary’s until 2020.
Here are the Southampton FC statements on this deal:
-Southampton FC Executive Director of Football Les Reed: “Since his arrival at the club, Cédric has gone from strength to strength, ending his first season in England with a memorable EURO 2016 for Portugal this summer.
“At just 24, he now has plenty of experience under his belt at both club and international level, and we believe he will continue to be a key part of the club’s progression for many years to come.
“Although Cédric has only been with the club for one season, he has developed as a player and gained a real understanding of what is required to succeed in the Premier League.
“He becomes the seventh player to sign a new contract this summer, strengthening the club’s commitment to tie down its top talent.”
-Southampton FC Manager Claude Puel: “It’s good news for the club, for Cédric and for all the team. He is an international player, he has won EURO 2016 with Portugal and it’s important for the club to keep players of his calibre.
“I’m happy for him and for us to keep Cédric with this team. He is a good player, important, a technical player and I am sure he will do many good things this season.”
-Cédric: “I’m really happy. The club has given me more confidence and they show me that they also trust in my football.
“I am really happy to be part of this club and be part of this family as well.”
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