SAINTS midfielder Oriol Romeu insisted “I have learned a lot from (Ralph) Hasenhuttl”, as he begins an eighth season at the club.

The 30-year-old Spaniard started the opening match of the Premier League season, in which Saints were defeated 4-1 at Tottenham Hotspur.

Romeu is coming to the end of his contract at St Mary’s, with his current deal set to expire next summer, and could face an uncertain future.

Romeo Lavia, the 18-year-old summer signing from Manchester City, is already considered Hasenhuttl’s new ‘six’ despite just one league appearance.

But, speaking to Spanish publication Marca, Romeu reflected on his ongoing Saints career – which has seen 255 appearances for the club – with fondness.

"I have learned a lot from Hassenhüttl. He has things I've never noticed. It is a benchmark in pressure,” Romeu said. “I have learned something from everyone

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"With Barcelona and in the lower leagues with Spain I had good moments, but Southampton is the team that has allowed me to fulfill the dream.

“Settling in a league as demanding as the Premier League and showing that I could perform at a very high level for so long. It's where all the pieces ended up fitting together and I'll always be grateful.”

The popular veteran continued: “It is my eighth year here and, although there have been ups and downs, with seasons where we have suffered more, the communion with fans and teammates has been unbeatable.”

Assessing his relationship with the supporters, Romeu added: “I think I'm the player who has seen the most cards in the history of the Premier League without being expelled.

“Our fans are amused. Every time they take out a yellow one they start singing: Ori, Oriol, Ori, Oriol, Ori, Oriol... Oriol Romeu,” he joked.

“When they take out a card I try to be careful because leaving the team with 10 is very negative."

Romeu could feature again for Saints on Saturday, when they welcome Leeds United to St Mary’s in the first home match of the season.

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