SAINTS vice chairman Leon Crouch has promised manager George Burley he will delve deep into his own pockets to finance any January signings.

But the club's second largest individual shareholder insists he is only happy to write a seven-figure cheque for new players providing chairman Michael Wilde "leads the way."

Burley last week told the Daily Echo that he will only be seeking loan signings to complement his current squad when the window opens.

But Crouch, who paid over £1.5m for just under 10 per cent of the Saints shares last April to help oust former chairman Rupert Lowe, still believes that could cost significant money in terms of wages.

Wilde revealed in the Echo yesterday that shareholders and fans must be "patient" as he attempts to attract new investment into the club.

But in the lack of any promised new investment brought in so far, Crouch admits it's down to the most wealthy Saints directors to chip in.

"George Burley is the best manager outside the Premiership and he can take us back to where we belong," said the Lymington-based businessman.

"If the promised investors have not materialised, then my fellow directors will have to put their hands in their pockets if George comes knocking on our door to strengthen the squad.

"George can count on my financial support - if Michael Wilde leads the way, as he promised prior to the EGM."

Full story: See today's Daily Echo