Soufiane Boufal says leaving Southampton was never an option.

The winger was tipped for an exit after spending last season on loan Celta Vigo, but he has instead forced his way into Ralph Hasenhuttl's side.

The Moroccan told the Daily Echo: "[Of course] I am very happy to be here.

"My mindset was to always stay here.

"I spoke with the club during the summer and told them that I didn't want to move and that I wanted to stay here.

"I am very motivated and happy to come back.

"I want to progress at this club and stay here. I want to leave the club through a big door and not a small door."