David Hughes has been named Southampton's head of academy player development.

Hughes becomes the first person to fill this role and opted to leave his position as Aston Villa's Under-18s coach to join the south coast side.

Hughes will report directly to Andy Hale, Saints' new academy director and his role will see him specifically focusing on player development on a one-to-one basis.

The appointment comes on the back of a major overhaul of the club's backroom staff and will see Hughes work with Edd Vahid, who has become the academy manager.

The Welshman started his playing career at the newly promoted Villa before going on to make seven appearances for them.