LEEDS manager George Graham has once again dipped into Europe's bargain basement to sign Austrian international defender Martin Hiden.

Graham doesn't have the resources to compete for the top names and has built a side with little known players who have the desire to succeed.

The Leeds boss has grown anxious in recent weeks about the small size of his squad, especially with injuries and suspensions taking their toll. He has travelled widely hoping to find another Bruno Ribeiro style bargain to boost the run in towards the FA Cup final and a top six spot in the league.

Graham took a final look at Hiden playing for Rapid Vienna two weeks ago and then clinched the deal believed to be for £1.4m.

The 24-year-old, who can play anywhere along the back line, is set to make his debut at the heart of Leeds defence against Southampton on Saturday.

Graham would have preferred to give his new boy a bit longer to settle, coming off the bench to get the feel of Premiership football.

But with David Wetherall suspended and Lucas Radebe involved in the African Nations Cup with South Africa, Graham will almost certainly team Hiden up with Robert Molenaar against Southampton.

Hiden, who earlier in the season played for Rapid Vienna against Manchester United, has signed a contract that will keep him at Elland Road until June 2001.

United's talented youth team kept on track to retain the FA Youth Cup when they beat Arsenal 1-0 last night to earn a place in the semi-finals.

Matthew Jones, fresh from a first time on the first team bench on Saturday, headed the all important goal.

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