SAINTS legend Francis Benali described Jan Poortvliet’s departure as a “real shame” – and admitted he would have liked it if an “outsider” had been brought in to replace him.

Poortvliet quit on Friday after just eight months in charge with Saints second bottom in the Championship and with just one win in 14 league games at St Mary’s.

The Dutchman cited Saints’ home form as the reason for his decision.

And Benali, 40, said: “It’s a real shame. To a degree I feel sorry for him. Obviously his hands have been tied with the finances.

“I am sure he would have liked to bring some players in to strengthen things a bit but the financial position didn’t allow that.

“So he had to work with the group of players, which was mainly a young, talented group, but in any side you need a blend of youth and experience.

“They have been playing attractive football but at this level it is results that matter and ultimately they have not had the results. In that situation you have got to then change things to try get results.”

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