Kyle Walker-Peters on why he chose Southampton over Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Kyle Walker-Peters has revealed that Ralph Hasenhüttl was the main reason behind him opting to join Southampton over Crystal Palace in January.

Walker-Peters signed for the Saints on a six-month loan deal during the winter window, with the youngster looking to gain more first team minutes having fallen down the pecking order at Tottenham.

The 22-year-old had a choice between staying in London and signing for Palace or joining the south coast club on an initial short-term deal.

Walker-Peters has insisted it was an easy decision to make after getting a phone call from the Austrian tactician.

“[It was] The style of play and the manager,” he told the Daily Echo.

“I spoke to him before I came, and he almost knew me better than I knew me which shows his interest in me.

“For him to take the time to call me was enough for me. I didn’t know he was picky so that makes me even happier.

“He knows what I’m good at and what type of player I am. I think his style compliments me.”

Hasenhüttl’s high-pressing style of play was another reason as to why he decided to join the St Mary’s side.

“It’s made it a lot easier.

“That style of play suits me and Ralph is really similar to [Mauricio] Pochettino in terms of wanting high intensity and high pressing.

“This benefits me because it’s my style.”