IN AN unlikely alliance, Ghanaian Premier League side Asante Kotoko SC, nicknamed the Porcupine Warriors, have formed a partnership with English Premier League outfit Southampton.

Asante Kotoko are one of the biggest sides in west Africa having won the African Champions League twice on the back of winning their own league a record 23 times.

The alliance will see Southampton, known as the Saints, support the development of Kotoko’s future.

Asante Kotoko’s CEO, Nana Yaw Amponsah said: “This partnership enables us to plug Asante Kotoko into Southampton in such a way that Kotoko functions like Southampton.

“Kotoko would have everything Southampton has but to a level that reflects our different budgets.

“I believe that with the expertise and resources available at Southampton, we can tap into this and develop our setup to look and feel professional like Saints.”

A statement from Southampton, who play at the St. Mary’s ground, added: “Southampton will share their industry-leading coaching expertise to help Asante Kotoko realise their ambition of building a sustainable academy and pathway to the first team, with year-round remote support supplemented by regular visits to Ghana throughout the partnership from the club’s International Football Partnership team.

“The partnership will include academy staff exchange visits between the UK and Ghana, as well as opportunities for Asante Kotoko’s young players to attend annual UK player development camps and experience the Southampton academy methodology first-hand, when travel corridors open up and it is safe to travel.

“Southampton will also support the development of Asante Kotoko’s commercial and operational strategy through collaborating on key projects.”

Mark Abrahams, Southampton’s director of business and community development said: “During these challenging times we’re delighted to have agreed a long-term partnership to work with Asante Kotoko.

“Nana Yaw has a clear vision for Asante Kotoko to be a self-sustainable football club both on and off the pitch. We look forward to working with him and his team to support their development.”

Southampton are currently ninth in the Premier League.