SFC Debut: Millwall (A) 16th January 2010

José Fonte took a step down from the Championship with Crystal Palace to join Saints in the January 2010 transfer window.

The dominating 6' 2" central defender played over 75 times for the Eagles after moving to England in July 2007, and in that time he became a key player for Palace at the heart of their defence. He won countless Man of the Match awards in the process, and has also drawn plaudits from fans for his ability on the ball.

The 26 year-old's arrival marked another significant capture for the Club. Saints saw off competition from a higher level to bring the centre back to St. Mary's on a contract until the summer of 2013.

Prior to his move into English football, the Portugese Fonte played across his homeland, starting his career on the books of Sporting Lisbon. He made his mark however, at Vitória de Setúbal where he soon came to the attention of one of Portugal's other leading lights, Benfica. He made one appearance at the Estádio da Luz (Stadium of Light) before enjoying a further loan at Paços de Ferreira.

It was during this spell that he appeared for his national side at Under-21 level. The defender teamed up with a preparation squad for the 2006 European Championships.

Fonte played consistently in the Championship for two seasons, proving to be useful at both ends of the pitch, scoring six times for Palace. He has quickly established himself at Saints, forming key partnerships at the heart of defence and earning praise for his no nonsense and passionate style of play.