The Lowe-down on Strachan

Last updated : 01 November 2002 By Christian Kelly

The Southampton chairman gave Strachan a glowing report. "In finishing 11th last season, Gordon achieved our first aim of staying up," said Lowe to the Echo. "Our finishing position was only one place lower than the previous season which, considering our start, was a good achievement.

"Some people doubted the appointment and predicted our demise, but where we finished last season was a credit to Gordon and his staff, especially as they had to pick up the pieces of a poor start.

"The club is in good shape and hopefully we can continue to improve.

"We can't afford to rest on our laurels, because as soon as you do that you are finished.

"We have to continue trying to improve. In football you have never achieved everything you want to achieve."

"Gordon has built up a good relationship with the supporters," the chairman continued. "He is doing a good job

"The supporters like his style, his wit, his passion and his commitment.

"Gordon's added to his squad well. Obviously he had to inherit the bulk of other managers' players, but he has spent well.

"I would say the squad he has now is the best any manager has had in my time as chairman."

"The reason we appointed Gordon is that he is honest, committed, passionate and his main objective is winning football matches.

"The fact he is also a very good coach was another major factor why we went for him.

"There were some doubters when we appointed him but I'm sure he has convinced people of his ability."

There's no doubt that Strachan has bought well. Williams, Telfer, Fernandes, Ormerod and Michael Svensson have all been added for little outlay. All have played well, which will teach me to keep my mouth shut as I had my doubts.

Saints have a few tough games ahead but we did well in sailor fixtures last year. Even a couple of defeats shouldn't detract from all that Strachan has brought to the club.