SAINTS defender Alfie Jones has joined Scottish Premier League outfit St Mirren on a season-long loan. 

The 20-year-old signed a new two-year contract at St Mary's earlier this month and, with opportunities to play first-team restricted at Saints, Jones is heading north for regular game time. 

Jones, who captained Saints' under-23s last season, joined Saints on tour in China in pre-season, but will now be playing in Scotland subject to international clearance.

St Mirren manager Alan Stubbs said: "It’s probably one that came into conversations a few weeks ago.

"We’ve found ourselves in a position where we can move forward with it and we are delighted that Alfie has agreed to join us.

"He is a young talented lad who is ready for this next step and we are looking forward to seeing him. He’s six foot, he’s good on the ball, he likes to play in that defensive midfield position and he has played centre back, which is an added bonus.

"Southampton have fantastic reputation in terms of producing young players through their academy. We find ourselves in a fortunate position that we have managed to get the services of Alfie through the help of Ross [Wilson] and a few other people who have made it happen.

"In terms of fitness, he has had a number of games now where he is up to speed so he will go into the squad for Saturday all being well."