SAINTS striker Shane Long has departed the club on a season-long loan to join AFC Bournemouth.

The 34-year-old found his game time limited at St Mary’s and has decided to join the Cherries for the remainder of the campaign.

Long has played 14 times for Saints this season, mainly as a substitute. He is yet to find the net this campaign.

The Republic of Ireland international penned a two-year deal at St Mary's last summer.

Having joined from Hull City in 2014, the Tipperary-born striker has 35 goals for Saints in 226 appearances.

“I am delighted to bring an attacker of Shane’s experience and quality to the club,” said Cherries manager Jason Tindall.

“As well as his undoubted technical ability, Shane’s character, maturity and leadership skills are something we have been searching for to add to what is a relatively young squad.

“He has played at the highest level for the majority of his career – including the past nine seasons – and we are hoping to bring the best out of him over the coming months as we aim to gain promotion back to the Premier League.”