DEFENDER Alfie Jones has left Saints to join Hull City.

The 22-year-old academy graduate joins the League One Tigers, having spent last season out on loan at Gillingham.

He joins Hull for an undisclosed fee, signing a one-year contract with the club having the option to extend that by a further year.

Bristol-born Jones, who was named Saints young player of the year in 2015, never made a first-team appearance for the club.

As well as his spell with Gills, Jones also enjoyed a loan stint at St Mirren.

Discussing his departure, Saints academy director Matt Hale said: “Alfie has an exciting opportunity to fully launch his senior football career and continue the progress he has made on the back of his two loan spells.

"We believe Alfie is at that age now where senior football is what he needs. He is a tremendous character and we have no doubt he will be a strong player for Hull City. We wish him every success in the future.”