FORMER Saints youngster Oludare Olufunwa has posted his first message since being confirmed as a new Liverpool player, following a successful trial.

The 21-year-old defender departed St Mary’s following the end of his contract this summer, but has landed firmly on his feet with a move to the Merseyside giants.

Olufunwa featured regularly for the B team in Premier League 2 since 2018-19, having progressed through the Saints academy for 11 years.

Despite not being offered a new contract at the Premier League strugglers, he has been brought into Liverpool as a free agent to bolster their under-21s group for the new season.

On his Twitter account, Southampton-local Olufunwa posted: “Excited to be joining this great club, what a special place!

“Thank you to everyone for making me feel so welcome, time to get to work!”

Earlier this summer, following his release from Saints after over a decade, he posted: “Thank you Southampton for the past 11 years.

I’ve worked with so many amazing staff members and players who’ve helped me grow as a player and person, and given me so many experiences I’ll never forget!

“Love to all the fans for giving me so much support on my journey too!”

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