Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana admits he's disappointed over the way he left Southampton.
Lallana says even Matt Le Tissier, who is regarded as the greatest star in Saints history, backed his decision to join Brendan Rodgers's men.
Lallana said: "I didn't say I'd never play for the club again. That's completely false.
"Once I knew Liverpool's interest, I asked the club if they could come to an agreement and that it would be my wish to leave and join Liverpool.
"I'll make no secret of that. I'm an ambitious person. At the age I was at my career, and with Mauricio (Pocchetino) leaving as well, it just felt the right time for me to test myself.
"It was a great opportunity. I'm sad and disappointed that certain fans feel like that, but I understand why.
"They love Southampton. I'll always love Southampton. I had a great time down there. It's just one of those things. I have great respect for Southampton as a club.
"Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today. They gave me my chance when I was young.
"What we achieved was special. It wasn't an easy decision and part of me was sad it had ended, but that's football. You move on.
"That's maybe why the reaction has been like that. They (fans) wanted me to stay so badly, but people have to make decisions.
"I did speak to Matt and asked his advice. He's a great man, and a good friend of mine, someone I'll always look up to. Whatever decision I made, he said he'd support me.
"A lot of the conversation I'd like to keep private, but it was great to speak to him. We're still friends to this day. He texts me every now and again."
