Saints fan dressed as Father Christmas spotted outside St Mary's

A Saints fan has been spotted dressed as Father Christmas outside St Mary's stadium ahead of their play-off clash against West Bromwich Albion.

The fan was spotted donning a red jacket, long white beard and Christmas hat ahead of the match.

LIVE UPDATES: Pre-match build-up to Saints v West Brom as thousands gather outside

He was spotted by Echo photographer Stuart Martin waiting for Russell Martin and his side to arrive ahead of the crunch match.

Saints need to win to book a place in Wembley, and a potential return to the Premier League.

Thousands gathered outside the stadium to welcome the team bus to the ground, with flares let off, beach balls thrown, and a raucous atmosphere.