It was one in and one out of the Saints midfield today.

Matthew Oakley called time on his 11 year Saints career as the club celebrated the capture of Argentine midfielder Marcelo Sarmiento.

Oakley, a veteran of over 300 games for Saints, has rejected the club's offer of a new contract and will officially become a free agent at the end of the month.

Sarmiento, 26, has joined a season long loan deal with a view to a permanent move.

Saints boss George Burley said: "Matt is moving on. He called me this morning and said he has decided not to sign.

"Under the Bosman freedom of contract we have to respect that decision. He wanted a longer contract for himself and his family and I wish him all the best.

"He has been a great servant to the club and will be welcome back any time but he has decided for his future that he is going to move away."

On Sarmineto, he added: "I always have a playmaker in my teams and Marcelo is that sort of player.

"He's got quality, he's experienced and at 26 he's reaching the peak of his career and sometimes as a manager you've got to back your own judgement and I'm very pleased and optimistic about this signing."

For more George Burley reaction, don't miss tomorrow's Daily Echo.

Also, what next for Matt Oakley?

Plus: Saints EGM latest ...