Howes has taken over at Southern Division One South neighbours AFC Totton.

Howes led the Watersiders to back-to-back promotions from the Sydenhams Football League (Wessex) to the Southern Premier Division South in 2019 before stepping down after five years in charge.

The 36-year-old succeeded Louis Langdown as AFC Totton boss after he left after four years at the Testwood Stadium following the onset of the coronavirus public health crisis.

Eight candidates applied for the Blackfield & Langley vacancy, with some lengthy discussions and a lot to consider, the chairman and vice-chairman felt this was the natural choice for the players and future of the club.

Saadi played for the club last season and was respected by fellow players and supporters.

The experienced 35-year-old midfielder signed for the Watersiders in August 2019.

Algerian with a British passport, he had been player-coach and then player and joint manager of Wessex League side Bournemouth Poppies in recent seasons.

Originally with Christchurch and then, from July 2002, AFC Bournemouth, he also spent time on loan with Poppies and Algerian side CR Belouizdad whilst on the Cherries books.

He left for neighbours Poole Town in the summer of 2005 and then joined Poppies on a permanent basis in July 2008.