Saints to bag Hall

SOUTHAMPTON manager Gordon Strachan has confirmed he is set to sign Fitz Hall from cash-strapped Oldham Athletic for £350,000.

The 22-year-old stopper earned rave reviews with The Latics last term, culminating in interest from Cardiff City and Everton.

Despite a number of sides tracking the youngster's progress, it now appears as though the South Coast side have won the race for the centre back's signature.

Strachan feels he has struck a great deal for the former Chesham player, who has the potential to succeed at the highest level.

"This was a great opportunity to sign someone for a very realistic fee and we can try to improve him as a player," explained Strachan.

Latics boss Iain Dowie, a former Saints player, had been hoping to collect around £1 million for his star turn.

Meanwhile, The Saints have confirmed that veteran defender Francis Benali is set to join the club's coaching staff.

The 34-year-old, who will remain as a player at St Mary's Stadium, will assume control of the club's Under-12 side.

"It is going to be a very exciting challenge and something I have been looking forward to all summer," said Benali.

"It has taken a while to get the exact details sorted out, but we are just about there now."