WAIGO AWAY?

On the Echo site....

ALAN Pardew will need to step up his search for a new forward as Papa Waigo is unlikely to return to Saints next season.

The unpredictable Senegalese player had spent most of the last campaign on loan at St Mary’s from Fiorentina.

However, his agent has been quoted in Italy as saying he will not be back.

Constantine Nicoletti reportedly said: “Papa Waigo will not return to Southampton.”

Saints announced when they brought the 26-year-old in on loan that they held an option to buy him this summer.

But it looks as if Pardew will be casting his eyes elsewhere for a new striker.

That is one of the key areas the manager has identified for strengthening this summer.

At the moment, Saints possess only two real options up front – last season’s top scorer Rickie Lambert and Lee Barnard.

That is the kind of forward line most clubs in League One would dream of, but Saints have no depth up front right now.

Shame really as I thought Waigo was different and his ability to control the ball with his first touch meant he gave defenders problems. Don't think Connolly has signed the contract on offer so will need to get a couple of strikers in as don't think we have many good quality strikers coming through.