MATT Le Tissier hopes Saints sign two defenders during the January transfer window – despite the recent improvement.

Saints have only conceded four goals in their last six Premier League matches – and most of those were down to mistakes by goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga.

But Nigel Adkins’ side still has the worst defensive record in the Premier League this season after conceding 32 goals in 16 matches. “Results have picked up but I would be looking at a couple of centre-backs in January to be honest,” said Le Tissier, who has seen several games at St Mary’s this season. “It’s been a problem area and if anywhere is going to be strengthened it has to be there for me. “We’re just a little but short in that department, there isn’t a great deal of cover there if the first-choice centre-backs get injured. “After a very shaky start Jose Fonte has grown into the Premier League, he’s improved as the season has gone on. But there are still question marks as to whether [Maya] Yoshida can cut it in this league.

“From that point of view I would be looking for a centre-half to play alongside Fonte.”

Jos Hooiveld has not started a Premier League game since the 4-1 defeat at West Ham two months ago.

Dan Seaborne is on loan at Charlton, while Aaron Martin remains on a season long loan at Championship high-fliers Crystal Palace, where he has not played since August.

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