Exclusive: Southampton close in on new manager appointment, deal done soon
Southampton have set their sights on sealing a quick replacement for sacked boss Russell Martin, sources have told Football Insider.
Martin’s departure was announced late on Sunday (15 December) and club chiefs are working hard to install a new man at St Mary’s Stadium.
The Saints are keen to make an appointment as soon as possible but are aware the job will be a tough sell to top managers.
Nevertheless, the club are keen the situation doesn’t drag on while a small chance at survival remains.
Southampton have picked up just six points from 16 league games this term and sit rock bottom of the Premier League table – effectively 10 points from safety.
It is believed they are keen to have a new manager in place for the trip to Fulham on Sunday (22 December) with the busy festive schedule ramping up in the next fortnight.
The Saints face Liverpool in the League Cup quarter-final on Wednesday (18 December) and Under-21 boss Simon Rusk is expected to be on the touchline to take charge.
Southampton keen to make quick appointment as relegation looms
Martin’s fate was sealed after a 5-0 home defeat against Tottenham, with all five goals conceded inside the first 45 minutes at St Mary’s Stadium.
The ex-Swansea boss achieved promotion at the first time of asking via the playoffs last season but faced criticism for his possession-based style after stepping up to the top flight.
Southampton have scored just 11 Premier League goals this term – by far the fewest of any side.
Any new boss could face Fulham on Sunday (22 December) followed by meetings with West Ham and Crystal Palace before the January transfer window opens.
In other news, West Ham, Southampton and Norwich plotting to sign 19-year-old.
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