PAUL STURROCK looks set to make changes against Chelsea next Saturday - and admits the process of finding new players has already begun.

The Saints boss has held discussions with Rupert Lowe regarding the future make-up of his squad.

And in his programme notes prior to Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Bolton, the Saints chairman linked the amount of money available this summer to their final Premiership position.

Each league placing is worth around £560,000, so Kevin Davies' winner at the weekend, which dropped Saints down two places to 11th, could cost his old club over £1m.

"A good finish this season partly lays the foundation for next season and will allow us extra funds to strengthen our squad," said Sturrock.

Sturrock would not say in which positions he wants new players, but it seems likely that midfield - particularly the wide areas - will be the priority.

He said: "We've had a discussion about areas of the team. Our scouts are out there trying to give me options as far as the positions I have asked to strengthen.

"I'm very hopeful we can start adding players to the squad before the start of next season which will enable me not to have sleepless nights about the shape of the team."

Of the immediate task, Sturrock said: "We will have to see who comes back fit from the international friendlies.

"It's the midfield shape I'm going to have to tinker with again.

"There is a problem at this minute in time because I'm having to play a central midfielder in the width or I play a striker in the width so it is very difficult to get a blend now.

"I'm still not happy with the blend in midfield and the shape of the team.

"I just can't get to grips with it at this minute in time and it is back to the drawing board next Saturday again."

Wholesale changes, though, seem unlikely.

"Experimentation would be unwise at Chelsea, but to be fair there are certain players who need another opportunity to turn my head over whether they will be regulars," said Sturrock. "We want points but, at the same time, I need to make sure I know about everyone."