PAUL Wotton has embraced the new management team at Saints.

Signed on a free transfer from Plymouth in the summer, the 31-year-old was subsequently frozen out by Jan Poortvliet.

Wotton made a late sub appearance in the 1-0 win at Barnsley this month, but before then hadn’t played since the 3-0 loss at Crystal Palace on December 8.

Although he didn’t want to go into the details of his absence, Wotton was understandably pleased to see Mark Wotte promoted.

His presence at yesterday’s press conference, as well as Wotte’s desire to give the experienced players an increased role, firmly suggest he is back in the picture at St Mary’s.

“It’s not just been a frustrating couple of weeks, it’s been a frustrating season for me,” he said.

“But that’s not for me to talk about now – what’s done is done.

“It’s important we unite and we’re strong and that’s not just from the players’ point of view, it’s for everybody connected with Southampton Football Club."

For full story and an extensive preview ahead of tonight's crucial Championship clash with Norwich, see today's Daily Echo.