FORMER Saints boss Dave Merrington has issued a huge rallying call to the city, telling them: 'Now is the time to show the Spirit of Southampton.'

The man who guided Saints to survival on a shoestring during the 1995/6 season is urging fans to get squarely behind the team for the big visit of fellow strugglers Crystal Palace on Saturday.

With Saints currently fourth from bottom of the table, the position of head coach Steve Wigley has remained in the spotlight in recent weeks.

But Merrington knows the fans can be the difference between winning and losing and is urging them to maintain their support for what he describes as an "absolutely vital" match.

"I'm not frightened to criticise, but there is a time and a place for that," he said.

"There has been some strong criticism, which people are entitled to do. But on Saturday, the team needs as much help and support as possible.

"The fans can be like a special player - they can tilt the scales. I know how good the Southampton supporters are from past experience. They are loyal and fervent and this is a big game.

"Three points are vital and the fans can play a massive, massive part."

Recalling the magical FA Cup run of 2003, Merrington added: "The fans need to be focussed on one thing and show the Spirit of Southampton.

"They did that in the cup final when they were the first to arrive and the last away.

"The supporters showed the good face of football all over the world.

"They need to come focussed on Saturday and really support the team because if they become critical, the players will sense it and that can only help Crystal Palace."

Merrington, who follows Saints home and away as an expert summariser on BBC Radio Solent, added: "I would love the supporters to send them off to Manchester United next week with three points in the bag."

Read Dave Merrington's full big match preview in tomorrow's Daily Echo.