LEON Crouch this morning broke his silence to dramatically back Michael Wilde's brave new world for Saints.

In a missive entitled Statement by Mr Leon Crouch Agent for Change',' the Lymington-based businessman explained why he would be voting for Wilde.

The statement reads ...

Over the last few weeks, I have had the opportunity of speaking to many people, fans, shareholders, board members and stadium staff, who are all such passionate supporters of Southampton FC and who have influenced my voting intentions at the EGM.

I bought my near 10% stake in the Southampton Leisure Holdings earlier this year.

I felt that I needed to stand up and be an agent for change' and have an important influence over the direction of the club that means so much to me.

I had hoped that it would be possible for both sides to unite, agree some common ground and avoid the need for an EGM.

However, it was not meant to be and I have no wish to blame this on either side.

One thing I do realise is that there needs to be change at the top, if we are to have a serious chance of returning to the Premiership.

Therefore, I will be backing Michael Wilde and his team of proposed new directors to take our great Club forward.

I acknowledge, as have others, the many constructive steps that Rupert Lowe has taken during his time as Chairman.

And I would personally like to thank him for what he has done for the club.

I hope that he will now accept that it is time for him to step down gracefully and allow Michael Wilde and his team to take over.

It is time for all passionate Saints fans to unite behind the tremendous team of people we have at the club including our manager, George Burley, and our players, all the academy and stadium staff and our commercial backers.

I hope the club will now move forward with a renewed determination and returned to its former glory.

For the record, I would like to state that I have never negotiated for or been promised a position on the board from either side to influence my decision.

There is a great deal to be done in the period ahead and I will make whatever contribution I can to assist the board and the people running the club in the future.

I pay tribute to all the fantastic loyal Saints supporters. Without you, there is no Southampton Football Club.

You have been unbelievably patient during some very frustrating times.

I believe that the decision I have made will help to ensure that the club moves forward as a united force with our football team and fans as top priority at all times.

"COYR!"

Leon Crouch.

For all the Saints egm latest, don't miss today's Daily Echo, including an exclusive interview with rebel director Brian Hunt.