Romeu pleased with key role at Saints

Southampton midfielder and fan favourite Oriol Romeu is enjoying his increased game time at Saints under Claude Puel, after struggling during spells at Chelsea and Barcelona.

Romeu has filled the void left by Victor Wanyama, who left the south coast for Tottenham last summer.

And Romeu believes he is now a key part of the Saints dressing room which has been reflected in Puel’s decision to feature him in 37 of Saints’ 42 competitive appearances this season.

Romeu will hope his side can get back to winning ways after defeat to Spurs last time out.

Puel’s men take on Bournemouth in a south-coast derby this weekend, with both sides locked on 33 points in mid-table.

(Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

“It’s been very good. Having games is something I needed and wanted and coming here has given me this,” said Romeu.

“It is something I haven’t done before.

“I’ve always been fighting for this and I’ve always been looking for this kind of season. I have good feelings that, as a player, I don’t want to lose and want to make it last as long as possible.

“It’s great to have this feeling and hopefully it won’t go away.

“I feel respected. I’m an important part of the dressing room, which in the way you play gives you that respect. It’s something very nice, I’m really enjoying it.”