8:24am Tuesday 27th July 2010
RICKIE Lambert says he would welcome the arrival of some new faces at St Mary’s.
And he has backed Saints boss Alan Pardew to bring in players of the right quality.
Saints released 13 players this summer and star striker Lambert, who opened his pre-season account in the 1-1 draw at Sutton United at the weekend, believes the club could do with bringing in some more to address the balance.
“I think we need a few players,” he said.
“Obviously the size of the squad we had last year was big and we have lost a few.
“But the players the gaffer brings in, knowing who the gaffer is, will be quality.”
Lambert thinks that has proved to be the case with the players that have arrived at St Mary’s so far this summer.
The Saints manager has increased his defensive options by bringing in full-back trio Ryan Dickson, Frazer Richardson and Danny Butterfield.
They have all impressed Lambert in the short time they have been at the club.
“It was disappointing for Frazer that he got the injury straight away,” Lambert said.
“He looks a really good player so hopefully he is back sooner rather than later.
“Butts (Danny Butterfield) I thought was superb, he played a really good game.
“In the first half I thought he was one of the only players who shone.
“And Dicko (Ryan Dickson), he came off with a little strain which I think is OK and I think he is settling in fine.”
Saints continue their pre-season preparations this week with games at League Two Barnet tonight and at home to Championship side Reading on Saturday.
Lambert is looking forward to both and thinks they will give a good indication of how ready Saints are for the new season.
“It’s a good game on Tuesday against Barnet,” he said.
“I have played there a few times.
“It’s a hard place to go so it’s going to be a good challenge for us to get ready for Plymouth.
“Reading as well, they are in the Championship and are a good team, so I think they are two good tests for us.”
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