Lee looks sharp

New signing Tadanari Lee had his first taste of Championship football in the 1-1 draw with Cardiff at St Mary’s last night.

Lee came on in the 61st minute and displayed why Nigel Adkins signed the Japanese striker.

He had a lot of energy and displayed a good touch when the ball was played into him.

The 26-year-old looked comfortable on the ball and demonstrated lightning pace to the St Mary’s faithful.

Lee replaced Jason Puncheon, who had a great game for the Saints, just after Rickie Lambert equalised from the penalty spot.

With Lee’s arrival, the crowd were definitely lifted and Lee’s presence was there for everyone to see.

However, having just recruited Billy Sharp from Doncaster Rovers for a reported £1.8 million – Lee may find it hard to break into the starting 11, with many Saints fans dreaming of a Lambert and Sharp partnership up front.

But Lee’s performance last night was encouraging and the Japanese international will be a great impact substitute when the Saints need a burst of life and energy to help themselves get back into the game.

It was also nice to see a giant Japanese flag in the Northam Stand…