Cork backs Rodriguez to shine in Premier League

Jack Cork has backed Saints' record signing Jay Rodriguez to justify his hefty price tag by starring in the Premier League this season.

The newly-promoted side signed the Burnley striker last month for £6million, breaking the club's long-standing transfer record set when Derby's Rory Delap joined for £4million in 2001.
Some eyebrows have been raised by the size of the fee Rodriguez commanded, but Saints midfielder Cork, who played alongside the 22-year-old at the Clarets, has backed the frontman to be a success on the south coast.
"It's a big statement from us to say that we're prepared to fight and stay in this league," he told the club's official website, www.saintsfc.co.uk. "We won't go down easily.
"I'm expecting us to do very well next year and I'm excited to see what other signings we'll get in.
"I've heard that it was a lot of money but I'm sure Jay will justify the price tag because I know he's a great player."