HARRY Redknapp today backed Southampton to have a Premiership future, despite the fact that they will drop down into League One after facing Forest tomorrow.

The former Saints manager remains convinced the club are equipped to challenge in the top flight.

But he says the club must find a buyer – and some significant investment – before that can happen.

"The situation is sad, but I could see it happening," he said. "They are a good club and one that someone should buy now.

"It's a great buy for somebody. They're up for sale and they're not expensive. They have a great fan base, a great stadium and a good training ground. "You need a serious money man."

James Beattie, the Stoke City and former England striker who left St Mary's in 2005, was sad to see the club's demise.

"It's not long ago we were in the FA Cup final and finishing eighth in the Premier League," he said.

"It's disastrous for them, something's gone badly wrong somewhere."

Southampton are set to start next season with a 10-point penalty after their parent company went into administration, although they do plan to appeal against the punishment.

"I just hope someone gets hold of the club and takes it forward, because it deserves to be in the Premier League," said Beattie.

Former club captain Michael Svensson was able to play in a testimonial match earlier this week, as he continues his fight to overcome a long-standing knee problem.

The Swede played five times at the start of the campaign and had hoped to have put his problems behind him.

But he now faces an anxious summer to see if he will be offered a new deal as a player or if he will take up a coaching role with the Saints.

"My contract is until the end of the season," he said. "I want to stay at the club but it is not in my hands, so we will have to see what happens."