George Burley has backed Wayne Thomas to solve Saints' defensive strife.

The Saints boss yesterday sealed the signing of the 28-year-old centre half for a fee of £1m up front, rising to a possible £1.2m, from Championship rivals Burnley.

Thomas, a combative centre half, will go straight into the side to face Norwich tomorrow as Saints try to put their dismal start to the season behind them at Carrow Road.

Burley said: "Wayne is a player I've known very well over the years.

"When he played for Stoke I tried to get him for Derby but missed out, he's done very well for Burnley and we were aware he was in the last year of his contract and maybe looking for a fresh challenge and we were very fortunate to get him.

"Steve Cotterill was reluctant to let him go but we were very pleased to get him."

For full story see today's Daily Echo.