Barnard joined Southend from Spurs in January 2008

Southampton have completed the signing of Southend United striker Lee Barnard for an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old, who began his career with Tottenham Hotspur, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal at St Mary's.

Barnard could make his Southampton debut in Saturday's FA Cup fourth round clash with Ipswich Town.

Meanwhile, Southend have signed Saints striker Matt Patterson on a free and extended Wolves defender Scott Malone's loan deal until the end of the season.

Patterson, 20, has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at Roots Hall.

Malone, 18, initially joined the Blues in August and has made eight appearances.

Barnard told BBC Radio Solent: "It's a big club. I've heard good things about the manager and the staff. It's clear to see the ambition around the place, this club doesn't belong in League One."

"I was very impressed with Saints when they came to Southend and won, so it's nice to come to a club of this stature and I'm looking forward to knuckling down and doing well."

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