Lawrie McMenemy has issued a rallying call to Saints supporters on his return to the club.
Southampton's most successful manager has accepted Michael Wilde's invitation to be a non-executive director on the football board after nine years in the wilderness.
He is backing George Burley to deliver the goods for Saints but the 1976 FA Cup winning boss believes the fans now need to play their part too.
In his exclusive Daily Echo column he said: "Many supporters have told me recently they would not be renewing their season tickets.
"I would ask everyone now to please show support, buy your tickets, fill the ground, be the 12th man for George and his team that will make the difference between a draw and a win."
He added: "I have accepted an invitation to join the other non-executive directors.
"For me it is a privilege and I will do everything I can to help get the club back into the top flight."
Read Lawrie Mac's full interview in today's Daily Echo.
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