MATT Crocker is set to be appointed as Saints’ new director of football operations – but the Daily Echo understands he isn’t expected to start his role until early 2020.

Crocker previously worked for the club as their academy manager back in 2006 and spent seven years in the job.

This saw him oversee all aspects of Saints’ youth setup, such as player development and coaching.

Players like Gareth Bale, Luke Shaw, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Ward-Prowse all passed through the academy when Crocker was in charge.

He left the St Mary’s outfit to go and work for The FA as their head of development - ensuring there was a pathway from the Under-15s to the Under-20s - and has been there for six years.

Although Crocker will be working under the same title as Saints’ former director of football operations, Ross Wilson, his role will be more like Les Reed’s.

The club have been on the hunt for someone to help assist manager Ralph Hasenhuttl since Wilson left to join Rangers in October.

It was previously reported by the Daily Echo that Saints were keen to appoint a ‘player trading expert’.

Despite Crocker’s imminent appointment, the club will continue to look for someone to help assist with recruitment.