Matthew Oakley will decide his Saints future in the next 48 hours.

The midfielder, a veteran of more than a decade and 300 games at the club, is out of contract in two days time.

He was offered a new one-year deal at the end of last season but was understood to be hoping for a longer deal.

There was initial confusion when he failed to return for pre-season training on Monday but he arrived yesterday for talks with George Burley.

Oakley should make his mind up very soon.

There are also reports that Saints could soon be signing a foreign player.

The club are in the race to land 26-year-old Argentinian midfielder Marcelo Sarmiento on loan for the season.

He currently plays for Argentinos Juniors.

For George Burley's reaction, see today's Echo.