SAINTS chairman Leon Crouch has told Rupert Lowe and Michael Wilde they are "deluding themselves" if they think they should return to the St Mary's boardroom.

Crouch also believes fans won't be "fooled or conned" by either of the former Saints supremos.

His stinging attack comes after the Daily Echo exclusively revealed last week Lowe and Wilde had formed an unlikely alliance in a bid to return to power.

The club announced to the Stock Exchange last week Lowe, who with Wilde is thought to represent 46 per cent of the club's shareholding, had contacted them.

Crouch has blasted the duo's timing, with the season reaching such a critical stage.

"I think both of them are deluding themselves if they feel this is the right time to come back," he said.

"It is a very unwelcome approach and a distraction from what is obviously the most important thing for Southampton, which is getting them into a safe position in the league.

"Both of them have had their opportunities.

"Rupert Lowe had ten years and ten managers.

"He did get us relegated and for the first year in the Championship the club was hovering around the relegation zone for long periods.

"Michael Wilde came in and promised investors and his own money and he failed to deliver.

"I don't think the fans will be fooled or conned by them."

For full story see today's Daily Echo.