SAINTS' double-promotion winning manager Nigel Adkins will make his return to the St Mary's dugout next week, as he takes charge of the Promotions Eleven at Kelvin Davis's testimonial.

Adkins, who recently departed Sheffield United and led Saints from League One to the Premier League in incredible back-to-back campaigns, will be back on the touchline on Tuesday, going up against current Saints manager Ronald Koeman on Davis's big night.

Three-and-a-half years on from his departure, Adkins is still held in great affection by the St Mary's faithful and will no doubt be set for a warm welcome from the crowd.  

"We had special times during the double promotions and the period in the Premier League. It was a special group of players," said Adkins.

"I'm really looking forward to coming back to support Kelvin and see the players, club staff and supporters as well.

"It's going to be a nice occasion for Kelvin. He was a big influence in the dressing room when I was there and he was my captain and goalkeeper. It should be a very special evening."

Adkins took over the club in September 2010, moving south from Scunthorpe United, where he had twice guided the Iron into the Championship.

The former physio oversaw an incredible period of success at Saints, as they went from near the foot of the third tier when he was appointed to automatic promotion in his first season.

Under Adkins, Saints stormed through the Championship at the first attempt, in 2011/12, securing their place back in the Premier League after a seven-year absence with a 4-0 home win over Coventry City on an emotional final day.

Adkins would then be replaced by Mauricio Pochettino midway through the 2012/13 campaign, leaving with the team in 15th position in the top flight.

Since then, Adkins has taken charge of Reading and most recently Sheffield United, who he parted company with earlier this week.

In his time at Saints, Adkins led the side through 124 games, winning 67 of those and drawing 25.