Chris Baird is ready to play a central role in Saints' historic match against Coventry tonight.

The Northern Ireland right-back will again partner new signing Pele in defence in the 100th league match at St Mary's.

Baird excelled in the centre when slotting in after skipper Claus Lundekvam's early injury in the 2-2 opening day draw at Derby on Sunday.

But he will face a tough test tonight - as Saints bid to improve on a dismal record of just one win from their last 15 opening home games of a season - against the likes of £3.5m-rated Gary McSheffrey and Stern John.

Baird - the only centre half option open to boss George Burley due to injuries to Michael Svensson and Darren Powell as well as Lundekvam - said: "I quite enjoyed it at centre half.

"I enjoyed it on Sunday and at the end of last season.

"As long as I'm playing I will play at left back, right back, centre back, midfield, I'm happy.

"I finished last season very strong. I played a lot of games, enjoyed my football and was playing well."

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