THE EFL and Puma have unveiled the first rainbow match ball, which will be used by all 72 clubs across matches from February 16-24.

Saints will play with the rainbow ball for the first time across the whole EFL during Friday's clash with West Bromwich Albion, as well as in their next two matches against Hull City and Millwall.

For every goal scored with the new ball across the Championship, League One, and League Two, Puma will make a donation to an LGBTQ+ Fans for Diversity Fund.

EFL chief executive officer, Trevor Birch said: "The league is proud to collaborate with Puma on this historic first for English football and join with our clubs, partners, and LGBTQ+ communities.

“We want the rainbow ball to raise awareness and understanding of the issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community as we work to make the game truly inclusive and representative of society.”

The money raised will be utilised to support LGBTQ+ supporters and their projects which may include initiatives to raise awareness about inclusion in football.