GRAEME Murty’s return has in some ways had more of an impact than David Connolly’s introduction at Saints, according to Alan Pardew.

Murty has successfully completed his comeback from the serious knee injury he suffered at the end of August.

After a brief sub’s role against Norwich, he has started in the wins at Hartlepool and Northampton.

Even before mentioning his hugely valuable experience, Murty is an extremely talented right-back.

Combining that ability with his knowledge and time in the game makes him a prized asset for Pardew.

The Saints boss believes his absence early on in the season had a big impact on the team’s slow start.

He added that, in some respects, Murty’s return had been more important than the signing of Connolly.

Full story in today’s Southern Daily Echo