Belmadi not offered new terms

Friday, May 25, 2007

The Algerian midfielder will not be offered a new contract when his current two-year deal expires in the summer.

Beldami was signed by Harry Redknapp but has struggled with injuries ever since George Burley took over.

Last season he managed just 11 league and cup starts with a further six appearances from the bench.

With potentially tighter budgets at St Mary's, Saints boss George Burley has decided there is no place for Belmadi.

The manager is not short of wide midfield options with Andrew Surman, Jhon Viafara, Nathan Dyer and Rudi Skacel all capable of operating on the flanks.

Burley had previously released David Prutton, Kevin Miller and Sean Rudd, while Michael Svensson will not be offered a new deal as he attempts to battle back from knee surgery.

Meanwhile John Gorman has returned to Saints following a six year absence to replace Simon Hunt as Chief Scout. Hunt has been poached by West Brom.