SAINTS manager Russell Martin has added to his backroom staff with the appointment of Colin Calderwood as first team coach.

The 58 year old joins from League Two outfit Northampton Town where he was assistant manager, and arrives on the south coast with over 40 years’ experience in professional football as a player, coach and manager.

Born in Stranraer, Calderwood began his playing career at Mansfield, but most notably played for Tottenham and Aston Villa in the Premier League, also amassing over 400 appearances in the Football League with spells at Swindon, Nottingham Forest and Notts County.

Earning 36 caps for Scotland, the centre-back moved into management upon retirement, taking charge of Northampton in 2003.

Winning promotion in 2006, he moved on to another former club in the form of Forest in May of the same year, securing a spot in the Championship with a second-place finish in 2008.

Other managerial spells at Hibernian and Cambridge United followed, with Calderwood also well-versed as part of a backroom team, taking on assistant manager positions at Birmingham, Brighton, Aston Villa and Blackpool, before returning to Northampton for a third spell in June 2021.

Commenting on his appointment, director of football Jason Wilcox said: “We are delighted that Colin has agreed to join us and further strengthen Russell’s backroom team.

“He has a wealth of experience from his many years as a coach and manager that we know will be invaluable to our squad.”

Speaking to Northampton's website upon the announcement of his departure, Calderwood added: "It is difficult to leave and I do so with a heavy heart.

"The opportunity to go and work at a club that is challenging for a Premier League return was not something I could turn down.

"I know Northampton Town are in very good hands and I wish everyone involved all the very best for the future.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time back at the club and I believe the club is heading the right way both on and off the field. I would like to thank everyone involved with the club and the supporters for their support."

Northampton Town chairman Kelvin Thomas added: "It is a real shame that Colin has decided to move on, but he certainly goes with our best wishes and as a friend.

"He has been made a very good offer from a club who are pushing for a return to the Premier League and we understand the attraction for him.

"We part on excellent terms and we thank Colin for the significant role he has played at the club over the last two and a half years."