Southampton have made a move for veteran goalkeeper Jamie Jones amid worries about depth between the sticks.
The Saints have lost key stopper Alex McCarthy due to a wrist injury, which has forced Tonda Eckert’s side to raid the free transfer market for new options.
Jones Makes Championship Switch
Southampton revealed their move for the 36-year-old on their club website, reaffirming his place as an emergency backup behind both Daniel Peretz and George Long at St. Mary’s.
It marks a return to action for the experienced goalkeeper, having last played in the EFL at Salford City last season, serving as a regular choice before being usurped by Sunderland youngster Matty Young.
He departed the Ammies over the summer, and had a brief stint at Warrington Town over January on a short-term contract and made three appearances for the Northern Premier League side.
With plenty of EFL experience at Colchester United, Leyton Orient and Wigan Athletic among others, Jones could see his first squad appearance for Southampton in the FA Cup fourth round against Leicester City, who they mounted a remarkable comeback against in the Championship less than a week ago.
Depth Crucial For Saints
As much as he may not need to see game time for Southampton, adding the presence of Jamie Jones will serve as reassurance should they lose another goalkeeper to injury.
Alex McCarthy’s absence is far from ideal, and even with the 36-year-old reduced to a backup for January signing Daniel Peretz, he is more than capable of starting for the Saints.
Jones was a very reliable option during his time at Salford City, but slowly lost his place to Matty Young as his performances caused Karl Robinson to shift around his number one choice.
He will also become a crucial figure in training, helping keep up the numbers for the rest of the squad to test themselves as they look to push for an immediate return to the Premier League.