George Burley believes Grzegorz Rasiak could hit 30 goals this season - and has defended the striker from criticism from sections of the fans.

The Polish international has now scored 18 times this season, 16 in the league, and a good finish could see him become the first Saints striker to score 30 league goals in a campaign for 40 years.

Even now, with the season barely over the halfway stage, there is only one man in the last 11 seasons that can better Rasiak's current league total - James Beattie with 23 in 2002/03.

But even with his scoring streak, Rasiak has struggled to win over sections of the St Mary's crowd who feel he doesn't work hard enough.

Burley said: "Grzegorz is not the type of centre forward who is going to run about the opposition back four and make crunching tackles - that's not his game.

"Some supporters criticise but Grzegorz is technically very good and is a continental striker.

"They are not as aggressive as British players but it is something Grzegorz is working at.

"But at the end of the day you look at the end product and nobody can complain about Grzegorz's end product".

For the full George Burley interview, don't miss today's Daily Echo.