EASTLEIGH believe next Saturday's (July 14, 3pm) friendly against Saints will be a fitting way to say farewell to their manager Jason Dodd.

Dodd's appointment as first-team coach at St Mary's comes almost a year after the defender put pen to paper for the non-Leaguers ahead of last summer's pre-season fixture against George Burley's men.

While the Spitfires are choked to have lost Dodd, they are delighted he has got his big break back into the professional game.

Chairman Paul Murray said: "We are obviously disappointed to lose Jason, but we understand that this opportunity is one he could not possibly let pass.

"We would not wish to stand in the way of his progression as a coach.

"Jason has the ability, discipline and work ethic that will see him do well in the future.

"He has worked tirelessly here at Eastleigh and we very much appreciate the contribution he has made to our progress.

"We hope that our friendly against Saints at the Silverlake Stadium next Saturday will be a fitting occasion for us to say farewell and for Saints fans to welcome him back."

For full story see today's Daily Echo.