Poortvliet was unveiled as the Saints' head coach last month

Southampton boss Jan Poortvliet has been given the go-ahead to take charge after a Dutch FA (KNVB) ruling.

Former club Helmond Sport took their case to an arbitrary board which ruled that the Dutch side are to be paid �60,000 (75,000 euros) in compensation.

The 52-year-old agreed a pre-contractual deal with the Saints last month despite still having a year to run on his Helmond contract.

Poortvliet took charge of training at his new club on Monday.

He said: "Of course I am relieved that everything is done now.

"This is my only chance to become a top coach. In Holland I have a certain image, which I will never lose. In England I would like to have a fresh start."

Helmond director Mario Captein is worried by the potential repercussions of the decision.

"This decision provides a license for all coaches who want to leave their club. All you have to do is start a job somewhere else."