Former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper coach Andrew Sparkes has taken a step forward in his career after signing for English Premier League side Southampton.

The 34-year-old parted ways with the Soweto giants at the end of last season as, previously reported, he wanted to be closer to his family in the United Kingdom.

However, the Buccaneers have already found Sparkes’ replacement after capturing the services of Jyri Nieminen.

The Saints announced that Sparkes will replace the former goalkeeper coach after he was appointed as assistant to the current head coach, Ralph Hasenhüttl.

‘Dave Watson has been asked by Hasenhüttl to enhance his role and will now become First Team Assistant Coach. Watson’s new role means the club has appointed Andrew Sparkes as our new First Team Goalkeeping Coach,’ the club announced.

Southampton released the following statement on the arrival of Sparkes, who will now be added to their technical team:

‘Following last week’s announcement on the updates to the board structure at the club, Saints can today confirm a number of changes that have taken place within the football staff at Staplewood Campus, designed to provide First Team Manager Ralph Hasenhüttl and Director of Football Operations Ross Wilson with the right support going into the new season.

‘Hasenhüttl will continue to be supported by a first team staff of Danny Röhl as First Team Assistant Manager, and Craig Fleming, whose interim role as First Team Assistant Coach has been made permanent, having previously stepped up from the academy upon Hasenhüttl’s arrival in December. Kelvin Davis will continue his work in the first team group in the role of First Team Assistant Coach, but importantly will also become the link to the senior academy players and ensure those players are prepared and ready for the first team.

‘Dave Watson has been asked by Hasenhüttl to enhance his role and will now become First Team Assistant Coach. Watson’s new role means the club has appointed Andrew Sparkes as our new First Team Goalkeeping Coach.’