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Eljero Elia has revealed his debt to Ronald Koeman and declared: I will run through brick walls and fire for him.

Dutch winger Elia made a beeline for his new boss after opening his Southampton account at Newcastle last week.

And his 50-yard sprint and emotional celebration after the first of his two goals was a clear sign of his gratitude to Koeman.

Elia, 27, admits Koeman was the only one brave enough to gamble on him after his career went downhill fast following his appearance in the 2010 World Cup final.

Spells with Juventus and Werder Bremen turned sour and Elia had tumbled so far he was better known for his bad boy reputation that saw him likened to Liverpool flop Mario Balotelli when he arrived at St Mary’s this month.

Elia said: “Koeman just had one question for me the first time we spoke: ‘How on earth is it possible that a player who starred in the World Cup final against Spain in 2010 has lost it? Surely you haven’t forgotten how to play football all of a sudden!’

Gallery: Elia bags a brace at Newcastle

“Koeman wanted a left winger and said he wanted to give me all his backing There was one condition from his side. I had to work my socks off from the day I would arrive in England.’’

“I will run through brick walls for Koeman. I will even go through fire for him. I owe him everything.

“And I don’t owe it to just Ronald, also to his brother Erwin. He has worked really hard with me to get me back to this level.

“I wanted to play again, for a good club and a good manager. Southampton and Koeman gave me this opportunity and I will be grateful forever.

“Apart from Ronald Koeman there has not been a single person in football who cared about me and asked me why things were not working out for me in Italy and Germany.’’

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Elia joined Saints on loan until the end of the season and is now desperate to prove he is no one-game wonder and earn a permanent deal after his two-goal display at St James’ Park.

Ahead of Southampton’ fourth round FA Cup tie with Crystal Palace tomorrow, he said: “Now the real work starts.

“I don’t want to be a one day wonder in the Premier League. I want to give a massive impression over a long period here, like I did in my best days in Europe and with Holland.

“I am going to show my class so that this club will decide to buy me. I am praying they will keep me!’’

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