He has also appeared on loan for Northampton, Bournemouth and last season for Norwich in the Championship. 19, however, is very young for a central defender, as Saints youngster Lancashire has shown with his two red cards in a handful of appearances.
Defence has been an Achilles heel for Saints all season and the six footer will add vital competition with Lancashire still learning his trade and question marks over the fitness of Svensson and Perry, both of whom have been unable to play consecutive games on a regular basis.
Saints have been crying out for a big, aggressive leader at the back and Pearce will need confidence beyond his years to get the back line organised.
The move should allow the impressive Cork to move to right back, a problem position for Saints despite Lloyd James' improved performance against Coventry.
Pearce is on loan to Saints until January 1st 2009, but will be unable to play against his own club, Reading.
With the new options in defence, things are also looking more promising at the other end of the pitch with McGoldrick finally back on the scoresheet, Jason Euell adding vital experience, Robertson fit again and Gasmi on the verge of making his first appearance for the club.
Small steps, with Saints still lacking a proven goalscorer, but hopefully at least steps in the right direction.