Southampton boss Nigel Pearson has hailed loan signing Ian Pearce and feels his "influence will not just be felt on the football pitch".The 33-year-old defender moved to St Mary's from strugglers Fulham on an initial one-month deal last week.

And, after making his Saints debut in the 1-1 draw at Scunthorpe last weekend, manager Pearson believes the experienced campaigner can boost his side on and off the pitch.

"Ian is a good, experienced player and a very positive character which is just as important," he told the club's official website.

"I played against him a couple of times and I know what he can do - he has been a very solid performer for a long time and has played in the Premiership all his career.

"He wants to play football and I am delighted to have him here. I hope he will bring experience and leadership and he is a good signing for us - his influence will not just be felt on the football field which is very important for us."

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