GEORGE Burley believes Alan Bennett will learn from his tough start as a Saint.

Bennett, on a six-month loan from Reading, has made errors that have led to some of the six goals Saints have shipped in their first two games of the season.

Fans have already let their feelings be known that he is not up to the required standard.

They have given him the nickname "Gordon" with many calling for academy graduate Olly Lancashire to be given a chance against Norwich on Saturday.

But Burley is adamant Bennett will be stronger for the experience as the player continues his steep learning curve at this level of the game.

Writing in his first exclusive Daily Echo column of the season today, Burley said: "It's not been easy for Alan Bennett.

"He's played for the Republic of Ireland but it's a different type of game in the Championship.

"He's an honest lad but first game we were caught being a wee bit indecisive a couple of times. That's the name of the game and you've got to pick it up quick, because there are good players in this league, especially strikers who tend to be strong and quick.

"When you look at the stats of the Palace game, it was incredible how we lost 4-1 and I'm sure Bennett and young Bartsoz Bialkowski will both be stronger for that."

Full story in today's Daily Echo