CHRISTIAN DAMIANO is Steve Wigley's new right-hand man - four days after The Daily Echo reported the club were after him.

The 54-year-old ex-Fulham and Liverpool assistant manager is the final piece in the jigsaw of Saints' new coaching structure.

He has worked with the biggest names in football, like Thierry Henry in France's national set-up.

Damiano said: "In the last few weeks, I have followed Saints' games closely and their injuries.

"Bad luck has seen them lose - but only by one goal.

"I know the club is a strong club, a very good club and I am delighted to come to Saints.

"I thank them for asking me to be involved in this very interesting and exciting project."

But Wigley, who admitted himself after the disappointing 0-0 home draw with Manchester City last week that people are judged on results in football, may have reason to look over his shoulder - even now.

Speculation has been rife that Gerard Houllier has been kept informed of the Saints situation by Lowe - the two are said to have holidayed in the same hotel in Mauritius last week.

But this has been denied. Saints chairman Lowe said: "That is nonsense - I've not even left the country or spoken to him. The story is complate rubbish."