TADANARI Lee's first interview in England is exclusively in today's Daily Echo - and the striker says he turned down several European clubs in order to join Saints.

TADANARI Lee has revealed he turned down offers from other European clubs in order to join Saints.

In his first big interview in England – printed exclusively in today’s Daily Echo – the Japan international explains how Southampton’s “special way” of playing persuaded him to move to St Mary’s.

The 26-year-old should officially complete his transfer from J.League side Sanfrecce Hiroshima this week, with terms already agreed and his work permit approved.

Lee said: “I got offers from many teams but the best offer for me was from Southampton.”

And the man who scored the winner for Japan in the 2011 Asian Cup final added: “Southampton have a special way of playing.

“I’m coming here to give everything to Southampton. I want to work together with my teammates and the fans when we win and lose, and to do my best to make the fans happy.”

Read the full EXCLUSIVE interview only in today's Southern Daily Echo.