Butterfield got started in his new role last week and will work alongside Under-18s Coach Craig Fleming, having returned to a club he made 54 appearances for as a player after joining in the summer of 2010.



And after leaving his player-coach role at Exeter City, the 36-year-old can’t wait to get started at an Academy that he is more than familiar with.



He said: “I’m delighted to be back at the club which is always moving forward and progressing which is something I want to do on a personal level.



“To be playing a part with the Under-18s who certainly have a pathway into the first-team at the club, is something I’m really excited about.



“To be joining a strong staff team that are already here at the Academy will develop me as a person as well.



“It’s a very important part of the club and a part that is relied upon because we players that come through the system to be in first-team.



Danny Butterfield during his playing days with Saints

“If I can contribute slightly in playing a part in the boys development as players and as men to make that step into the Under-23s initially and then the first-team, that’s what it is all about for me coming back.”



After making a seamless transition from playing to coaching, Butterfield also paid tribute to his former employers.



He added: “I’m thankful to Exeter for that. The transition into coaching from being a player was smooth.



“Now being back at Southampton the environment is completely different because you’re helping the Academy players instead of trying to step onto the pitch yourself.



“It’s a great place to come and work every day and that’s what I’m looking forward to.”