Caceres credits Ramirez for Southampton move

Southampton can thank former player Gastón Ramírez for helping them to snaffle defender Martin Caceres after the Uruguayan revealed his compatriot played a key role in his move to St Mary’s.

Five-time Serie A winner Caceres joined Claude Puel’s side as a free-agent, but his start at the club was delayed following the death of his brother.

The 29-year-old provides cover for the injured Virgil van Dijk, bringing huge experience to Southampton’s defence and he revealed that fellow Uruguayan Ramírez – who was at St Mary’s from 2012 to 2016 and now plays for Middlesbrough – helped him make his mind up.

“I knew about Southampton because I had a friend from the Uruguayan national team here in Gastón Ramírez,” Cáceres explained.

(Photo credit should read FABRIZIO BENSCH/AFP/Getty Images)

“When the option came up for me to join Southampton, I spoke with him, and he spoke very highly of it.

“He told me that the club operates very well and has fantastic fans.

“That was, without doubt, one of the main reasons that drew me to a move here.

“After six months without playing, you obviously can’t wait to put on the match shirt again and get out on the field.

“That’s what every player wants. I can’t thank Southampton enough for putting that trust in me.

“I want to repay that out of the pitch. I’ve had experience with big teams, and now I just want to give my very best to this club.”