Eljero Elia has revealed his eagerness to prove his quality in a loan spell at Southampton in the second half of the season.

The 27-year-old could be signed by the Saints on a permanent basis if he impresses over the next few months, and he admits that he wants to prove his critics wrong after leaving Werder Bremen, where he was criticised for swearing at fans on Facebook.

"I cannot wait to play. I want to show people what I can do," the Dutch winger told reporters.

"I want to prove myself and be important for the team. I want to prove the things they say about me are not true and be only positive.

"Last season was hard for me. I was playing in the wrong position and we were struggling in the league. My qualities did not come out. I am a technical player and I am a typical player for the English game."

Elia could make his debut when Southampton travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United on Sunday.