ROSS Stewart has completed his move from Sunderland to Southampton, with the striker signing a three-year deal at St Mary's and telling of his delight at finalising the switch.

Stewart leaves Sunderland after a memorable two-and-a-half years on Wearside, and with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman praising the frontman for his professional approach.

Stewart's Sunderland contract was due to expire at the end of this season and with no signs of a breakthrough after lengthy discussions over an extension, Speakman said the Black Cats had to "protect the club in the best possible way".

Southampton have paid an initial £8m for the 27-year-old, with the deal potentially rising to £12m. There's also a sell-on clause included.

Speakman said: "Ross has made a significant contribution in his time with us and I know many of our supporters will be sad to see him depart for this new challenge.

"Despite a lot of outside noise suggesting otherwise, Ross has always conducted himself professionally on and off the pitch and I know that he would have wanted to contribute more in the last 12 months.

"Although it was not our preferred choice, Ross indicated that he saw his future away from Wearside and from that moment onwards, we have worked to ensure we protect the club in the best possible way. We thank him for his contribution and wish him well.”

READ MORE:

After the move was finalised, Stewart said: “I’m absolutely delighted. It’s been a really long day, but it’s been really good too. In the end, I’m delighted to get everything done in time and I can move forward now.

“Southampton is a massive club. In recent years it’s been a Premier League club and for me it’s a great challenge to come down here and play football for a team that’s going to be competing at the top of the league.”

Southampton's director of football Jason Wilcox said: “Ross is a really dynamic and intelligent player, so we’re delighted to have added him to the group.

“His form and development over the past couple of seasons have been very impressive, and we’re confident this will be a great place for him to continue that.

“He’s got a fantastic work-rate and he’s a great character too, so we believe he’ll be a really popular addition and an excellent fit for us.”