KELVIN Davis has returned to Saints in a new role that will see him work closely with boss Claude Puel as a support for senior and academy players, with the eventual aim of going into management.

The long-serving goalkeeper brought an end to his 22-year professional playing career in May, hosting an emotional testimonial at St Mary's as a farewell after ten years and more than 300 appearances at Saints.

In interviews with the Daily Echo leading up to his testimonial, Davis admitted that he and the club were working on the creation of a job that he could be appointed into after he hung up his boots.

The 39-year-old travelled out to Baltimore, USA, for Saints' week-long pre-season training camp, where he has subsequently been handed the role of 'football development executive'.

The well-liked former shot-stopper will work closely with Puel and executive director of football Les Reed, acting as a link between the first team and management.

The job also extends to supporting young players who are out loan in the Football League, meaning he'll be the 'main point of contact' and aide for Saints starlets developing their game elsewhere, like Jason McCarthy who is on loan at Walsall.

Davis, who joined Saints from Sunderland in 2006, will also 'develop' his coaching qualifications as he eyes the next steps towards becoming a manager.

"It’s a very interesting role and it’s one I’m very excited about. It’s a new challenge for me and I’m very much looking forward to it," Davis told Southampton FC's YouTube channel.

"The main role for me now is to communicate with the manager, ensure that all the players in the first team are where they need to be and make sure there’s that link between the dressing room and the management staff.

"Being at the club for as long as I have and with the experience I’ve picked up, it’s important to pass that on to the younger players as they make their way towards the first team.

"I’m delighted to be staying with the football club. It’s a really exciting time for everyone concerned. I’m looking forward to playing a big part in helping the club continue its fantastic progression."

It seems there is no better fit for this job than Davis, considering he's been at the club through relegations, financial crisis and then the meteoric rise back from League One to Premier League in back-to-back promotions.

Having Davis back at the club may well be a big advantage for new manager Puel, who will likely benefit from the goalkeeper's strong relationships and bonds with the current squad, helping the Frenchman understand his players better.