Broadly speaking, we need to improve the depth of our squad. Danny Fox, Jos Hooiveld or Paulo Gazzaniga are not Premier League quality, and Rickie Lambert is not going to improve over night. This would indicate a need to introduce defensive back ups, and possibly a young and hungry striker. I believe Danny Ings from Burnley has been mentioned on Twitter. Unfortunately, I don't see us signing any squad players, let alone first team stars, this January transfer window.
First, look at where Southampton is in the league. It's hardly cause for panic. Is it really necessary for the board to invest more money at this stage when we're ninth in the league?
Second, even if there was panic, would Cortese authorise signings? Last season we signed Vegard Forren in January. In the Championship, it was only Lee, Sharp and Hooiveld. We're hardly big spenders in the winter. The club is prudent with their finances and likely to plan ahead. I really don't expect any panic signings based on past experience. Really, our position was much much worse last season.
Third, are Fox, Jos and co really that bad anyway? Okay, again, I'll admit they're not Premier League quality by any stretch of the imagination. However, do they provide the first XI with adequate back up. Let's say, for example, we purchase a new left back to cover for Shaw. What possibility is there a) that he might usurp Shaw, or b) realistically play that much to justify the money spent on him? It would be worse off for the club to get rid at this stage. It's more likely that an academy player will get promoted to the first team - perhaps during the summer, even.
So, I really can't see that much money being spent this January. Nevertheless, I'm sure I will remain glued to the Twitter feed in the faint hope that something just might happen.
