Pardew took over as boss at Southampton in July 2009

Southampton boss Alan Pardew says he is happy to handle the pressure that comes with the job at St Mary's.

Saints are the bookmakers' favourites to win League One this season after missing out on a play-off place last season because of a points deduction.

Summer speculation suggested Pardew's position was under threat after Saints failed to make the top six.

But Pardew told BBC Radio Solent: "We have to cope with the pressure that this job brings."

Rumours during the close season hinted that owner Markus Liebherr and chairman Nicola Cortese were not satisfied with the progress the club had made, and that Pardew's future may be under threat.

Pardew succeeded Mark Wotte as manager in July 2009, but Saints began his first season in charge with a 10-point penalty, as the club had been in administration.

The former West Ham boss added: "Not once did I have any intention to walk away, and I still don't. It's not my decision, it's the board's decision.

"They've decided I'm their man for this season, and hopefully I can lead them to what they want."

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