Leeds United boss Simon Grayson welcomes Celtic defender Darren O’Dea into his side’s ranks in time for tomorrow’s Championship curtain-raiser at Southampton, writes George Bouras.

Grayson spoke of his new loan signing as a “versatile, strong defender with a great attitude” and it’s likely O’Dea will go straight into the squad for the Southampton game.

O’Dea joins veteran midfielder Michael Brown and goalkeepers Andy Lonergan and Paul Rachubka as Grayson’s only summer signings and all four will be looking for a place in the Leed’s starting line-up.

Apart from long-term absentees Luciano Becchio and Davide Somma with hamstring and cruciate ligament injuries respectively, Leeds should be at full strength at St Mary’s.

Grayson is able to include Robert Snodgrass and Ben Parker in his squad after the pair recovered from injuries and Andy O’Brien’s recent pre-season outings also makes him an option.

Midfielder Jonny Howson will lead out the side, having been given the captain’s armband permanently this season after filling in for the now-departed Richard Naylor for much of last season.

At the age of just 23, Howson now boasts more appearances for the club than any other current player leaving Grayson to declare: “He has thrived on the responsibility he’s been given.”