NEW AFC Totton director of football James Beattie hopes the Stags can strengthen their partnership with former club Saints.

Beattie was appointed to the full-time role last week, off the back of a nail-biting end to the season for the non-league outfit.

AFC Totton were beaten on penalties by Salisbury and AFC Portchester in the Southern League playoff and Hampshire FA Cup final.

However, the Snows Stadium-based side have already taken steps to further continue their progress under manager Jimmy Ball.

Now, Beattie hopes to strengthen a partnership first announced in 2018, which sees Snows used as a host stadium for some women's and academy games. 

Asked if this is a possibility, Beattie told the Daily Echo: "I would believe so.

Daily Echo: AFC Totton manager Jimmy Ball, director of football James Beattie and chairman Stephen SnowAFC Totton manager Jimmy Ball, director of football James Beattie and chairman Stephen Snow (Image: Jon Ashworth)

"I think the board will be in talks with Southampton to try to strengthen those bonds and enhance them to make them more beneficial mutually. 

"I think that's a great thing to have. It's a great link to have, Southampton's only a few miles away.

"The facilities down here are not as good as Staplewood, but I know that the facilities here are the envy of many a non-league club and some league clubs. 

"Don't forget I was at Accrington Stanley and we didn't have provisions like this. The foundations are here.

"The good work's already in progress, I'm happy to be part of the team going forward and to try and help bring that success Jimmy speaks about."

AFC Totton will once again compete in the Southern League Premier South division during the 2024/25 campaign, with season dates yet to be confirmed.