Southampton's Jack Cork believes that the recent arrival of Jay Rodriguez at the St Mary's Stadium has signalled the club's intent ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Many bookmakers have rated the Saints as one of the favourites for relegation next season.
However, Cork believes that the signing of former England youth striker Rodriguez from Burnley shows that his team are prepared to compete in the top flight.
"It's a big statement from us to say that we're prepared to fight and stay in this league," Cork told the club's official website. "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."
On a personal level, Cork was named as part of Great Britain's men's football squad for the Olympics yesterday afternoon.
