Former Barcelona Midfielder discusses Chelsea exit

Oriol Romeu played 20 Premier League games for Chelsea

ORIOL ROMEU has revealed Chelsea 'told him to leave' over the summer.

 

The 25-year-old former Barcelona player made just 22 Premier League appearances for the Blues during a four-year stint.

He signed for Southampton this summer for £5million on a three-year deal, but he admits it was not his decision to leave the club.

Asked whether Mourinho approached him about leaving Stamford Bridge, he told Spanish newspaper AS Diario: "It was the club who told me I could go.

 

"I did not expect it, although I came from a long injury and that always had an influence. 

"With Andre Villas-Boas, I believe my best time was there but then came Roberto Di Matteo and when Rafa Benitez arrived I broke my cruciate ligament.

"Due to the circumstances they had been sending me on loan in recent years. What I need now is to play.

 

Oriol Romeu kick-started his career at Barcelona

"Then the Southampton chance arrived, which allows me to continue in the Premier League and in a good team.

"We are doing things right [at Southampton]. New good additions came in the summer and Koeman has continued the positive dynamics of Mauricio Pochettino. 

"I signed with the idea of having playing time and reaching targets. I'm happy and eager to have continuity."