According to an interview he did with Fox Sports in the Netherlands, via Sky Sports, Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk has hinted that he hopes he will be allowed to leave the club during the January transfer window, in a move which has angered Saints fans.

The centre-back wanted to make his exit in the summer after handing in a transfer request, but no move materialised and he made his first start for the club since January when he lined up against Stoke City at the weekend, having been on the sidelines for around eight months through injury.

With just under five years still left on his contract though, it is unclear whether the south coast outfit will be willing to listen to sell the player in the New Year.

Van Dijk said: "Of course, I wanted to make a step up, but Southampton did not want me to sell me, but you're a professional, so now I'll give everything to the club.

"Halfway through the season, maybe we can see what's possible."

Southampton supporters were quick to have their say on the Dutchman's latest comments via social media, and while some said it 'magnifies his lack of class', others believe the club "should have got rid in the summer".

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…