Saints have announced that Matt Targett has signed a new contract with the club as he looks to make this season one which he truly makes the breaktrough to Premier League level.
Saints have put out a press statement .
Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce that left-back Matt Targett has signed a new five-year contract.
The Academy graduate, who has been with Saints since the age of eight, has committed his future to the club until 2022.
Targett missed the majority of last term due to a hamstring injury, but following his surgery in December the 21-year-old has returned in impressive pre-season form.
"It’s a great way to kick-off the season," started Targett.
"I am really happy to sign. I’ve been at the club since I was eight so to extend my time here is only a good thing.
"Physically I feel good. I think I feel the best I’ve ever felt. I think the injury has only helped me improve physically and mentally.
"I have come back from it all and got my fitness back — I am feeling fitter and stronger so it’s all positive at the moment."
Three Years ago Targett looked impressive as he broke into the Saints first team when Ryan Bertrand was injured, but in Koeman's final season he fell out of favour with the Dutch manager and his career stalled a little.
Last season injury kept him out of the side for much of the season allowing Sam McQueen to break into the side.
However in pre season he has looked a little bit more like his old self and he looks set to finally fulfill his potential, Saints certainly think so and could put their faith in him should Ryan Bertrand leave at any stage.
But for now he will understudy Bertrand and hope that when his chance comes he can take it with both hands.