FOOTBALL SHORTS

SOUTHAMPTON will try to reintroduce a British core to their squad next season in an effort to avoid another relegation battle. The Saints recruitment team, led by director of football operations Ross Wilson, will aim to sign more homegrown players this summer. Rangers’ former Burnley midfielder Scott Arfield, 30, is a target.

FULHAM players want Scott Parker to be appointed permanent manager ahead of the club’s push for an instant Premier League return.

Sportsmail understands a core group of the club’s senior players — including captain Tom Cairney — are prepared to express their opinion to sporting director Tony Khan, who will be responsible for the appointment of the club’s next manager.

SHINJI OKAZAKI is set to leave Leicester when his contract runs out at the end of the season in another departure from the side that won the Premier League. The Japan striker wants to seek options in Spain or Italy.