MIDFIELDER Ainsley Maitland-Niles vowed to offer “advice and guidance” to Saints’ fledgling youngsters but warned he would “give someone a dig” if they were not doing the right things.

The England international joined Ralph Hasenhuttl’s squad on a season-long loan deal from Arsenal on transfer deadline day.

He made his Saints debut at the weekend, having come off the bench for the final 17 minutes of Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Wolves.

Asked how he saw his role in helping the club’s youngsters, the 25-year-old told the club website: “Just giving them advice and guidance, you know? I have been through a lot throughout my short amount of time playing.

“I will just put my arm around people when needed. Pull people to the side and give someone a dig if they are not doing the right things – then put them on the right path again.

“You have got to nip it in the bud early, because then it carries on and people think they can do it for a long time.

“In matter of fact, a career is very short, so you have got to try to cut those things out very early.”

Versatile Maitland-Niles was part of the Roma side which won the Europa Conference League last season, while on loan under Jose Mourinho.

He has played 88 times at England’s elite level but insisted he would not be expecting a spot in Saints’ starting XI as a given.

“Of course, nothing is promised to you. You always have to work and try and grab your shirt as long as possible,” said the former West Brom and Ipswich loanee.

“The manager told me that when coming here. It’s a challenge and I am ready to fight.”

Maitland-Niles could once again be involved for Saints when they host Brentford on Saturday.

Thomas Frank’s Bees have picked up nine points from their opening six league fixtures.