Jan Poortvliet has praised the impact of Jason Euell on some of his young stars.

One of the club’s highest wage earners, Euell only returned to the Saints ranks last month after a nasty shoulder injury sustained playing for the reserves.

He made an immediate impact with an impressive display against Coventry but missed the Preston game through a hip injury.

Euell was fit enough to come off the bench against Bristol City last weekend and made an impressive difference, even if he did squander a good chance to bag an equaliser.

Euell has now cemented himself at the forefront of Poortvliet’s mind and the head coach has been impressed by the way the presence of his experienced pro helps his young guns.

He said: “What Jason always brings is some energy in the game – he is an energy player.

“For that reason, even for all the good football players, you need someone who gives you the energy.

“He came on against Bristol City and it was important when he did that for the energy level.

“Directly when he came on the game was quicker, we had more power in the midfield and the young players played easier at that time.

“He did a good job and the game against Coventry he showed that he is useful for us.

“He is a good player and he will be part of the team now.

“He can make it easier for players like Romain Gasmi, Morgan Schneiderlin and Andrew Surman.”