GOALKEEPER Paul Jones has described this season as "probably the most frustrating" of his Saints career.

The Welsh number one has slipped to second choice following a series of outstanding displays from £2m Finnish international Antti Niemi.

But a knee injury to Niemi forced Jones back into the frame last week in the FA Cup semi-final against Watford and he is expected to start against Leeds today and Birmingham on Monday.

Last Sunday was his first Saints start since he appeared against Birmingham and Newcastle back in December.

Jones, who along with Brett Ormerod is the only member of Saints' squad to have played at the Millennium Stadium, said: "We've got two games in quick succession which will be really good for me. I'll be doing the best I can to make sure I stay in the team, but it's the gaffer's choice.

"This season has been very frustrating for me, probably the most frustrating since I've been here because it's the first time in six years I've not been first choice.

"To be left out is very frustrating but as a professional you have to get on with things and just do the best you can.

"When Antti got injured earlier in the season I came in for two games, thought I did okay but as soon as he was fit he went straight back in which was disappointing,

"That experience has taught me not to expect anything in football. I just concentrate on doing my job and what happens happens."

Jones, who celebrated his 36th birthday yesterday, performed well against the Hornets last week, pulling out a quality save in either half, and he knows that Leeds have the firepower to again test him.

He said: "It was fantastic to be involved and in the winning side for the semi-final. But it is the bread and butter of the league now and we don't want our season to peter out as a result of our cup run.

"I did what I had to do against Watford. I only had a couple of saves to make but was pleased with my performance.

"I'm not taking anything for granted because it is the manager's decision who he plays in goal.

"At the end of the day all I can do is my best."

He added: "Leeds have had a couple of good results recently but they still need one or two more wins to make them safe from relegation. Peter Reid has really got them going. Sometimes a change of direction is what you need.

"It will be good for me to get these games under my belt but I don't want to be too busy, although sometimes you can have relatively little todo and still concede three of four goals.