Danny Butterfield’s arrival at St Mary’s will provide the kind of squad cover that Saints have been missing.

The 30-year-old is not exactly a headlining grabbing free transfer signing but is exactly the kind of man Alan Pardew will need in Saints’ attempt to break out of League One this season.

Butterfield has vast experience in the Football League having played over 100 games for Grimsby Town and over 200 games for Crystal Palace.

Saints knew they had to get cover in at right back over the summer to avoid heading into the new campaign without a single recognised player in that position and they have done so.

Firstly, Frazer Richardson arrived from Charlton. He remains most likely to start the season there.

But the arrival of Butterfield on a one year contract gives Pardew cover in that role and he also brings the option of playing in midfield if required.

Saints are rapidly heading towards a stage where they have two experienced and capable players for each position, meaning even if you get an injury in the squad you don’t fear throwing in the understudy.

That is exactly the situation Pardew has been working towards in his transfer policy since last summer and is a proven recipe for success in terms of achieving promotions.

The major areas left for Pardew to consider are in the striking department where he publicly stated he felt he needed one more body whilst he also wants another central midfielder.

Whatever else happens in the transfer market, the Saints squad looks strong and healthy three weeks before the new season kicks off.