Former Southampton captain Jose Fonte has explained his return to Europe at Lille.

Fonte, who left West Ham last season for Dalian Yifang, signed for LOSC earlier this month.

He told L'Equipe: "The Chinese club preferred to recruit three attackers. I had to find a way out. Lille was the first to come forward. I met Luis Campos (sports director) in London.

"I was attracted by what he explained to me about the project, by what would be my role on the team. I spoke with Anthony Lopes, Joao Moutinho. I knew a little about Christophe Galtier. All the info was positive.

"I was aware of the difficulties of last season. But I also know that it is a big club, which won the Championship seven years ago (2010-2011 season). With a big stadium and everything you need to win in the future. I also got closer to my family, who live in London, one hour and fifteen minutes by train. For me it was perfect."