SAINTS academy graduate Andrew Surman is set to return to the club as an under-18s coach.

The 37 year old made 146 appearances for Saints after progressing through the youth system to make his debut in 2004.

Surman has been assistant coach of neighbours AFC Bournemouth's under-18s team since January 2023. 

He will now give his experience of nearly 400 matches in England's top two leagues to the first age group of Southampton's professional phase.

Surman is set to start his work at Saints on Monday, departing the Cherries where he spent six years as a player. 

Surman will assist current under-18s head coach Calum McFarlane, who followed Jason Wilcox this summer from Manchester City.

Saints are set to confirm more details on Surman's arrival next week. 

Saints compete in the Under-18 Premier League South and were title winners during the 2021-22 campaign.