SAINTS are hoping to tie up a deal that will bring former trainee Brian Howard back to the club on loan.

The Daily Echo understands manager Nigel Adkins approached Reading last week for the Winchester-born midfielder.

The Royals are content to let the player leave, but negotiations between the various parties were still to be completed last night.

Sources told the Echo that there are still one or two potential stumbling blocks that need to be sorted out before a deal can be signed off.

However, Howard could well be in place for Saturday's clash with Sheffield Wednesday if an agreement can be struck.

The Echo also understands that the 28-year-old would welcome a return to his first club.

That would certainly bolster Adkins' options for the rest of the campaign in the centre of midfield, where he is currently short on depth.

For the full story, see today's Daily Echo.