GEORGE BURLEY hailed Gareth Bale "the best young defender in Britain" and eased fans' worries by insisting he has NO intention of selling him - or anyone else in his squad.
There have been fears amongst a section of supporters that Saints may cash in on their prize asset.
Chairman Michael Wilde revealed in Wednesday's Daily Echo that Burley might have to sell first if he wanted money for new players during the January transfer window.
However, Burley says he doesn't want to lose his outstanding 17-year-old Welsh international left back - or any other member of his squad.
Instead, he will be looking for loan signings to supplement his current squad.
He said: "For me Gareth is the best young defender in Britain and I don't say that lightly.
"Even in the last six weeks the boy has really got stronger and been tremendous.
"There's going to be hype but Gareth is signed by the club for a year and a half and he will be there for that at least .
"It's the same for the rest of the squad - we want to keep them and there is no pressure to sell."
See today's Daily Echo for the full story
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