DEFENDER Taylor Harwood-Bellis declared he is “so sorry” that Saints have been relegated from the Premier League already this season.

The 23 year old completed every minute of Sunday’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur, in which a 3-1 defeat sealed the club’s Championship return. 

England international Harwood-Bellis has made 32 appearances in all competitions this season following a £20million summer transfer to St Mary’s.

Harwood-Bellis could depart Saints when the transfer window re-opens but has issued a statement to the club’s supporters in the wake of relegation. 

On social media site Instagram, Harwood-Bellis said: "It’s really hard to put into words how heartbroken and frustrated I am by this season.

"After the highs of last season, I’m so sorry we didn’t manage to push on and perform like we know we’re capable of. 

"I truly believe in this team and I know we’ll be back stronger. You fans deserve it. It felt important to come on here and say a huge thank you to those that stood by us all season.

"You’ve cheered us on no matter what, and please believe me when I say we’ve heard, seen and felt the support. Thank you, Saints. 

"It’s been hard to put into words how disappointing this feels, but we’ve got to focus on finishing the season as a team, together."