The big news is that Saints are going to sign Swedish International Michael Svensson. Svensson didn't get a kick at the world cup but has managed to get 11 caps. He will give a lot more depth to our defence and give Lundekvam and more likely Williams competition. Troyes press officer, Eric Vinneron said : "Southampton's manager, Gordon Strachan, was here two weeks ago and discussed a deal. But it was decided that the details would be settled after the World Cup." & Troyes president, Daniel Vacelot: "It's difficult to say no when a club offers so much money. We are sad that Michael is leaving but glad he's going to a better club."
Sticking with Swedes, we're still after Magnus Hedman apparently. A£ 2 million fee has been touted around, but I think that this story is going a little cold now.
More on Gary Breen's time while under Strachan at Coventry. The republic of Ireland international said: "I was very disappointed with the way certain things went at Coventry because I expected to do well there and I made a decision to go there on the basis of going with a young manager. Unfortunately it didn't work out and our relationship wasn't great, personal things got in the way of me being picked." he added: "I have a few options but I wanted to concentrate solely on Ireland. As a centre-half you probably get better as you get older and more experienced and I certainly feel comfortable at this level now."
In ex saints news Colin Cramb currently at Fortuna Sittard has been axed as the club reduce their wage bill. Cramb is currently injured so I can't see another club coming in for him. It's a terrible thing for t he club to do to a player who is still under contract with them.
Uli van Gobbel may well be forced to retire through a persistent hip injury.
Daryl Flahaven has still not resigned for Southend. Southend assistant manager, David Crown said : "The situation with Darryl at the moment is that he is not prepared to commit to Southend United. He wants to keep his options open and play at a higher level than Division Three. You can't knock any player for having ambition but we have to look after ourselves and, for the good of Southend United, we now need to look for a new goalkeeper. So we are in the market and we spoke to a keeper yesterday. Saying that though I've spoken to Darryl and so has Rob and he hasn't signed for anyone else yet. He's waiting to see who comes in for him but he's very uncertain. I personally don't necessarily think he won't sign but I know Rob has got a different opinion and it's not cut and dried yet."