Southampton manager Nigel Adkins has labelled goalkeeper Kelvin Davis as "a top pro" for the way he accepted being dropped from the team.
After conceding 14 goals in four consecutive defeats, young Argentinian Paulo Gazzaniga was preferred to Davis in the Saints' 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Saturday.
Afterwards, Adkins heaped praise on Davis for his reaction on being left out of the starting lineup.
"He's the ultimate professional and a major player in what's happened at Southampton in the last few years," said Adkins. "But I have to make a decision, that's what I'm paid to do.
"I told him on Thursday of my decision and he responded exactly as I would expect - in a positive, professional manner because he's a top pro.
"Paulo has put in a good performance. He caught the ball when he needed to, kicked it well and made a good block in the second half."
Saints have also signed Polish goalkeeper Artur Boruc on a free transfer.
Matt Cotton
