Southampton sign striker Lambert

Lambert scored a late winner against the Saints in last year's FA Cup

Southampton have signed Bristol Rovers striker Rickie Lambert on a three-year deal for a fee in excess of £1m.

The 27-year-old was the joint top scorer in League One last season with 29 goals.

Lambert said: "The owner and chairman here have great plans for the club and I am really looking forward to working with Alan Pardew.

"I am really grateful to everyone at both clubs for making this deal possible," he added.

The 6ft 3in striker scored Rovers' goal in Saturday's 2-1 home defeat by Leyton Orient in League One.

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Manager Alan Pardew has confirmed that Lambert will be handed the coveted number seven shirt, previously worn by Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier.

The Saints boss says his new striker will definitely start against Northampton Town in Tuesday's Carling Cup first round game.

Pardew told BBC Radio Solent: "He's someone we tried to get before Saturday's game. We'd like to thank Bristol Rovers for their help in making it happen.

"I feel he is the player that can get us out of this division and he starts on Tuesday.

"For the last two years, he has been prolific in League One and we want him to continue that. He's what I would call a marquee signing."

Lambert started his career at Blackpool and has previously played for Macclesfield Town, Stockport County and Rochdale.