Rupert Lowe has paid tribute to outgoing Southampton captain Claus Lundekvam ahead of the popular Norwegian defender`s testimonial on Friday night.

Former Saints boss Gordon Strachan is bringing his Celtic team to St Mary`s to honour 35-year-old Lundekvam, who was forced to retire at the end of last season after 12 years` distinguished service on the south coast.

And plc chairman Lowe said: "Claus has been a tremendous servant to us on the pitch and off it. He always has time for the fans who have taken him to their hearts and made him one of their own and I really hope they turn out in force to show their appreciation.

"It will be a big night for everyone. It`s sure to be a very emotional occasion but it will also be an important part of our pre-season preparations.

"It will be the first game at St Mary`s for Jan Poortvliet and his coaching team. It will be a big test for them and it will be interesting to see how they fare."

Saints legend Matthew Le Tissier and fit-again defender Michael Svensson will feature from the bench as well as Lundekvam himself, who hopes to be able to play the final few minutes.