Saints have signed West Ham defender Christian Dailly on loan to help shore up their defence.

The 33-year-old defender, primarily a centre half but versatile enough to play most positions, has joined for an initial month and goes straight into the side to face Barnsley at St Mary's tomorrow.

Manager George Burley has been on the lookout for an experienced and strong defender to strengthen the back four after injuries to Darren Powell and Claus Lundkevam.

Dailly is the answer to that problem and Burley is delighted to have got his man.

He said: "He's played a lot for Scotland and been at West Ham for many years and he's versatile.

"I've seen him, he's still fit and still hungry to play.

"I watched him in the reserves and he did well and he is keen to come.

"He was out early in the season with a broken toe but he's come back and is fully fit.

"I'm pleased he's agreed to come for an initial month and we'll take it from there.

"There is no doubt with Claus and Darren Powell out we've been short in that department.

"Christian is a leader, a good character, he's enthusiastic".

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