A regional daily has bolstered its sports team with a new addition after reaffirming its commitment to football coverage earlier this year.

The Southern Daily Echo has announced the appointment of Tom Wallace as a third Southampton FC writer.

Tom, who will work for the Echo in addition to studying for a degree in sports journalism at Solent University, will join Alfie House and George Rees-Julian in covering the club for the newspaper.

He will also cover non-league club Eastleigh and Hampshire County Cricket Club as part of his duties.

His appointment comes after the newspaper earlier this year committed to retaining two football reporters despite Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League.

Tom, pictured, said: “I am delighted to be joining the Daily Echo team, on what promises to be an exciting year down at St Mary’s.

“With the new brand of football that boss Russell Martin has brought to the club, the mood has quickly turned around and the future is looking much more positive for the Saints, despite the recent relegation from the Premier League.”

Editor Ben Fishwick added: “Tom will be working alongside Alfie and George reporting on Southampton FC.

“I’m pleased the Echo is continuing to play its part in helping to train the next generation of journalists – this is on top of hosting work experience students each week in the newsroom.”