Southampton manager Harry Redknapp has made his son, Jamie, his first signing of the transfer window.

Redknapp also agreed to take Tottenham defender Calum Davenport on loan.

“I am so excited about this – it’s a great club to come to and a big challenge for me,” said the midfielder.

“The fact that I am helping my Dad out comes into it a little bit but the main thing for me is to be playing again.

“Michael Carrick is playing well in midfield and I did not see myself getting back in.

“I really think this will give me a new lease of life. It has given me a lift already and I cannot wait for Wednesday night (when he is expected to make his debut against Fulham).”

Redknapp also thanked Spurs for allowing him to leave.

“They were great about it and (manager) Martin Jol even said when I finish playing to come and talk to him about a coaching role.”

Tottenham agreed to release the 31-year-old former England midfielder, who made 53 appeaerances in his three years at White Hart Lane.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy praised Redknapp for his stint at White Hart Lane.

“Jamie has been a outstanding ambassador for our club. During his time with us he has always shown commitment and enthusiasm,” said Levy.

“He proved to be an excellent club captain with his positive attitude and fostering of team spirit.

“We would like to thank Jamie and wish him well at Southampton.”

Redknapp admitted he had decided on the move in order to get regular first-team football.

“I have enjoyed my time at Tottenham but, as the team has developed, there has been a healthy increase in competition for places and I have found myself on the bench more than on the pitch,” he told the Tottenham website.

“At this stage in my career I want to be playing more so I had a chat with Frank (Arnesen), Martin (Jol) and the chairman and asked them to let me go.

“They were great about it and Martin even said when I finish playing to come and talk to him and about a coaching role.”