Saints to close parts of stadium

St Mary's Stadium was opened in 2001 (Getty)

Southampton are to close parts of their St Mary's Stadium next season as part of the club's cost-cutting measures.

Three of the four corners of the stadium will be closed, affecting around 700 season ticket holders.

The club believes the changes, in tandem with cuts to subsidised bus travel and match-day staffing, will save up to £250,000.

"We deeply regret having to take these measures," football club chairman Michael Wilde told the club website.

"But unfortunately they have been forced upon us by the financial situation we find ourselves in.

"We now have to make some unpleasant and unpalatable decisions to get the finances back on track."

The areas will be reopened for games where huge crowds are expected.

Meanwhile, the club have yet to announce which out-of-contract players they intend to keep next season.

There could be changes as new head coach Dutchman Jan Poortvliet runs the rule over the current squad.

Among those waiting to hear their future are Nathan Dyer, Inigo Idiakez, Darren Powell and Jermaine Wright, who will be free agents.