Adam Lallana on exit from Southampton: 'I regret the way I left'

With Southampton set to host Liverpool on Sunday, all eyes will be on Adam Lallana, who'll be returning to St. Mary's Stadium for the first time since his £25-million move to Anfield in July.

The 26-year-old attacking midfielder didn't exactly leave Southampton on the best on terms. Although he denied reports that claimed he issued an ultimatum to his former club, his transfer to Liverpool was poorly received by supporters of Ronald Koeman's side.

And Lallana is well aware of that.

"I'm not stupid enough to think the way I left didn't leave a sour taste in a few people's mouths," Lallana said, according to the BBC.

Lallana continued: "I regret the way I left. I regret bits and pieces of how it happened and it got nasty. It was sad the way it happened. What is true is that when I knew of Liverpool's interest and that they had put a bid in, I did say to the club it would be my wish if they could negotiate a fee for me to move on.

"Not for one second did I say I wouldn't play for the club again. I'm man enough to say it was my choice and my decision for me to move on."

It's worth noting that should Lallana, who also expressed appreciation for the good times he had at Southampton, score against his former club on Sunday, there won't be any celebrating.

"Of course not," Lallana said. "I've got huge respect for the club, part of me doesn't even know how I'm going to play. It's all a bit surreal. I just have to be professional and play well for Liverpool. I've got too much respect to celebrate."