Vasco da goner leaves hole in defence

Vaskó certainly seemed to have all the right ingredients to fill the massive gap in the squad at centre back. 6 foot 5, a Hungarian international, plenty of potential at 23 and a loan. Out of the two trialists, he looked a more likely bet to sign for Saints, particularly as there is extra money involved with signing Vignal.

However, clearly Vignal has done more behind the scenes on top of a screamer of an opening goal in Norway and some impressive long range passing.

Now Saints have to try and negotiate the terms of a loan from Lens, despite saying initially that the player was available on a free. Clearly Burley believes he can help Vignal resurrect what looked initially a stellar career and the player is keen to come.

The major concern of course is that Saints desperately need another centre back, all the more so after Powell's likely suspension after an unecessary red during today's 2-1 victory over Bouremouth.

With Claus unlikely to stay fit for the whole season and Pele having struggled against route one Championship strikers and even young Cranie shipped off down the Solent, Saints need to recruit and fast. It takes time to build partnerships at centre back and Saints are running out of that.