Sugawara keen to stay at Southampton and prove himself to supporters

The full-back said he is "really excited" to play in the Championship and wants to play a big part in winning promotion back to the Premier League.

Sugawara was linked with interest from Napoli late last season after losing his starting spot, but is focused on remaining on the south coast.

Asked if he sees his future at Saints, Sugawara told the Daily Echo: "Yeah, of course. Last season was a really tough season, as an individual as well.

Yukinari Sugawara during Southampton's pre-season friendly against Eastleigh. (Image: Stuart Martin) READ: Five things we learned about Saints from friendly win against Gillingham

"So I really want to show the fans and the league (that I can) bounce back. I'm really ready for that. Last season was really tough.

"I've got so many things to improve from last season, so I want to prove myself this season and I want to work for the Saints to get promoted."

Sugawara revealed he spoke with Japanese teammate Junya Ito, who played under Still at Stade Reims, to get an insight into his new manager.

The Belgian-born English coach wants Saints to thrive in the wide areas and get balls into the box quickly, which is suited to Sugawara's strengths.

"I spoke with Ito and the other two Japanese players there as well, and I've heard a lot of positive things about him," Sugawara explained.

Yukinari Sugawara during Southampton's pre-season friendly against Eastleigh. (Image: Stuart Martin) READ: Saints score four in behind-closed-doors friendly clash with Gillingham

"I'm really excited to play for the new gaffer. He expects us to be very simple, to take a risk around the box. Don't overcomplicate things there.

"That is important. Sometimes we do too many passes in the box, but sometimes the players feel they can just shoot. That's simple.

"He also demands us to run a lot. I like it. We have to be tough. I don't know if I'm fit or not because it's the pre-season, we've only had two weeks.

"I've been training really well, I feel well, and running a lot and working hard a lot. The new gaffer told me a lot of things, but we will adapt to him, which is really nice."