Saints legend Mick Channon says he is "worried sick" about the club's current predicament.

And the club's all-time record goal-scorer would even welcome back Glenn Hoddle - a man he had previously not wanted to see in charge again at St Mary's.

Channon, pictured below, said: "I am just a Saints fan these days, but I am worried sick about what is happening. There is no doubt we are already in deep trouble, and look like a ship without a rudder.

"The chairman has got to bring a boss in - and quickly. Coaches are a waste of time - the club needs a manager who will crack the whip and make things happen.

"It needs someone to give Saints direction again because at the moment there doesn't appear to be any. Gordon Strachan did a good job, and Paul Sturrock did not do a lot wrong.

"Now someone else must be brought in to take over the reins. It is no good the chairman thinking he is the boss. He is there to set policies, not manage. We need someone with a bit of authority, to kick backsides if that is what is needed."

Channon added: "I would urge the chairman to make a decision without delay, and if it is unpopular with supporters then so be it - that is what he is there for. We need someone in and I think if he brought Hoddle back I would forgive him.

"We are just fans who wants to see Saints win. We will carrying on supporting the club even if we go down, but please don't treat us like idiots.

"If the rot continues, then goodness knows where it will end. The whole atmosphere at the club has that sinking feeling, and it cannot go on like this for much longer."