Saints' Draper quits game through injury

Southampton midfielder Mark Draper has retired from the game because of injury.

The 33-year-old joined the Saints from Aston Villa in July 2000 but has only made 28 starts since then due to a series of problems.

Draper told the club’s official website www.saintsfc.co.uk: “It is the ankle which has actually forced my retirement but I have had persistent problems with the knees too.

“It is just wear and tear but there is no way I could carry on playing.

“I suppose I have known for the best part six months that I would be struggling to make it but it is still a big disappointment to have to finish.”

Draper also played for Notts County and Leicester after starting out at Meadow Lane as a professional 15 years ago.

Meanwhile, Southampton are in talks with China international Yang Pu according to reports in the Chinese press.

The midfielder, who plays for Beijing Hyundai, claims he has held discussions with the Saints over a move.

“It’s true that the English Premier club Southampton is intent on signing me, but so far there is no deal on a transfer or loan,” Yang is quoted as saying on BBC Sport Online.

The 25-year-old: “I am not getting younger and it might be the last chance for me to play abroad.”