Released defender Dan Harding has signed a two-year deal with Southampton. The full-back left Town at the end of last season.

The ex-Leeds man, who has been on trial at Yeovil and former club Brighton during pre-season, says he is looking forward to helping the Saints back into the Championship: "I am excited about the challenge of playing for Southampton this season.

"There is a real buzz around the club following the takeover and appointment of Alan Pardew. I saw that over 22,000 fans turned up for the match against Ajax at the weekend and I can't wait to play in front of such passionate supporters and do my bit to help the club."

Manager Alan Pardew added: "I am delighted that Dan has chosen to join us and I feel he will become a valued member of our squad this season.

"He brings with him the valuable experience of playing for the likes of Reading and Ipswich in the Championship and I am sure he will be a positive influence both in the dressing room and out on the pitch.

"We have a good group of players here at Southampton and I have been impressed with how they have applied themselves at training over the past couple of days. We are working hard to bolster the squad with further quality and I hope that Dan will be the first of a few new arrivals ahead of the season."

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls