CHRIS Todd has vowed to put his leadership qualities to good use with Blue Square Bet South outfit Eastleigh.

The 31-year-old former Exeter and Torquay defender was one of three centre-halves signed by the Spitfires last week as manager Richard Hill attempts to strengthen the backbone of his side.

With Tom Jordan and Osei Sankofa transfer-listed, Hill is pinning his faith in Todd, ex-Hereford, Northampton and Luton centre-back Dean Beckwith and Luton loan youngster Alex Lacey, 19, to shore up a defence that has leaked 41 goals this term.

Beckwith and Lacey made their debuts last Tuesday as the Spitfires stopped the rot with a comprehensive 5-0 home beating of Billericay.

But, with Todd standing by for his introduction on Saturday, heavy rain intervened, forcing the postponement of the home game against Boreham Wood.

As a result, Eastleigh slipped to fourth to bottom of a remarkably tight league table in which just nine points separate fifth and 21st spots.

Full story in today's Daily Echo