Former Saints U23 defender Richard Bakary has joined AFC Totton.

The Benin international right-back was with Saints for four years before being released last summer.

He made his debut in the Stags' first win of the season, 1-0 at home to Willand Rovers in division one of the Bet Victor Southern League on Tuesday night.

Totton boss Louis Langdown explained: “Southampton are providing guidance off the field for Richard and AFC Totton are giving him the platform to play football again.

“It’s a combined effort to support a young man in getting back playing.

“He met his teammates on Tuesday and instantly you can see he’s a humble man who loves football and wants to give his best efforts.”

Bakary told afctotton.com: “I want to thank the coach for this opportunity, and thank Southampton for setting up this link.

"The facilities at AFC Totton are amazing, I just want to do my best for the team and the coach, and for everyone who is helping me. The team played well Tuesday and it was great to start with a win.”