ALAN Pardew is right to expect at least 18 months to prove himself as Saints boss, according to ex- manager Lawrie McMenemy.

Pardew’s future came under pressure following chairman Nicola Cortese’s calls last week for the club’s league form to improve.

But the Saints boss responded after Saturday’s loss to Pompey by saying he should not be judged until he has spent 18 months in the job.

That is an assertion backed by the man who led Saints to the 1976 FA Cup.

And McMenemy believes Cortese will ultimately give Pardew a fair chance.

He told the Daily Echo: “Every manager needs time.

“I think Mr Cortese will be aware of how difficult promotion is this season.

“He seems to be a sensible and experienced enough businessman to realise promotion this season is a huge ask, so let’s build and have a real go next year.”

Full story in today's Daily Echo.