SAINTS skipper Claus Lundevkam believes his side can finish in the Championship's top two next season - but admits new investment is crucial.

The injured centre half had to watch from the stand as his side were eliminated by Derby in the play-off semi-finals courtesy of a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out.

Lundekvam concedes that new investment is likely to be a key factor for the club now the parachute payments have ended.

The long-serving Norwegian believes any potential investor will see what the current squad is capable of and, with a couple more signings, that could be a Premiership return next season.

Writing in his final exclusive Daily Echo column of the season Lundekvam said: "I'm very confident that if we have the squad we have today for next season, with a couple of additions, we have a great chance of finishing in the top two next season.

"We have to regroup and go again.

"Of course we all know much of next season may depend on finances and any investors coming in will be welcome for the club.

"It's going to be very crucial for us with losing the parachute payment to get some finance in to take us forward."

American billionare Paul Allen is still interested in a possible takeover, with Saints' PLC board directors hoping for a formal bid soon now everyone knows which division the club will be in next season.

Read Claus Lundekvam's column in today's Daily Echo