Archer: There's no better place to develop

The 22-year-old striker arrives at St Mary’s on a four-year deal from Aston Villa, having spent last season in the Premier League with Sheffield United.

Saints have made a habit of improving young players over the years, and Martin’s management style struck a chord with his newest recruit.

“That was one of the main reasons why I'm here, his playing style, his coaching and trying to improve me as a player,” Archer said. “It's not a bad place to do that in the Premier League with Southampton.

“I just want to keep scoring goals and improve myself as a player, and I don't think there's a better place to do that than with Southampton. I feel fit and ready, raring to go and get out on the pitch.”

Archer, who goes straight into the squad for Saturday’s season opener at Newcastle, already has some Saints connections including former England youth colleagues Nathan Wood and Taylor Harwood-Bellis – his captain in the triumphant European Under-21 Championship campaign last summer.

Elsewhere, fellow forward Ben Brereton Díaz is also a familiar face, with the pair having combined up front for Sheffield United following the Chilean’s arrival at Bramall Lane in January.

“Not before I signed, it happened so quick,” Archer said, when asked if he had spoken to any of his former teammates prior to signing.

“I had a good chat with them when I came. I've seen them this morning, they've all got something positive to say, it's nice. Obviously I knew Ben from last year. I had a good chat with him, so it's nice to have.

“Me and Ben, we love to run and get in behind – similar playing style and we can try and do well on the pitch together. Hopefully I can bring that archer celebration out very soon!”