Southampton's Sugawara joins Werder Bremen on loan

Yukinari Sugawara has made 35 appearances for Southampton

Southampton defender Yukinari Sugawara has joined German side Werder Bremen on a season-long loan.

Werder Bremen have confirmed the deal includes an option for them to make Sugawara's move permanent next summer.

The Japan international joined Southampton from AZ Alkmaar last summer and made 32 appearances in his debut season at St Mary's.

The right-back, 25, has made three appearances this season under new boss Will Still but will now spend the remainder of the campaign with the Bundesliga side.

Sugawara told Werder Bremen's website: "I'm really happy to be here. Werder is a big club, and I can't wait to play at the stadium in front of the fans."