GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - JULY 13: Alan Richardson, Senior Coach of the Saints speaks to his players during the round 17 AFL match between the Geelong Cats and the St Kilda Saints at GMHBA Stadium on July 13, 2019 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Melbourne has secured the services of former St Kilda coach Alan Richardson for the 2020 season.

The 54-year-old will offer support to Simon Goodwin and help the growth of the entire coaching team as part of his role.

After a disappointing 2019 season, General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney says recruiting someone of Richardson's stature and ability is a great coup for the football club.

“Following on from the appointment of Darren Burgess earlier in the year, we are very happy to have Alan come on board for season 2020,” Mahoney told Melbourne Media.

“Alan is extremely well respected within the industry and it was no surprise that he had a number of options from other clubs, and we are pleased that he has chosen Melbourne.

“He brings with him a wealth of knowledge having filled a number of senior football roles at a number of clubs.”

Richardson is the second longest-serving coach in their history, coaching the Saints in 126 games over a span from 2014-2019.

Richardson also boasts much more coaching experience, where he was coaching VFL club Coburg, and assistant coached at AFL level for the Western Bulldogs, Collingwood, Essendon, Carlton and Port Adelaide.

The club will speak further about Richardson's role and appointment at the end of the season.