Town chairman David Sheepshanks has revealed that Southampton are interested in young full-back Matt Richards. The 18-year-old has made rapid progress this year and by the end of the season had become Joe Royle's regular left-sided defender.

Sheepshanks says he knows of the Saints' regard for Richards but reiterates that Town do not want to sell their promising academy graduates: "We are aware that Southampton are one of the clubs who are interested in Matt Richards, along with a few of our other young players.

"We have had no approach from them and nor would we welcome one for any of our youngsters, around whom Joe Royle is looking to build our future team."

Southampton may be looking around for a replacement for Wayne Bridge should the England international move on to a bigger club over the close season.

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