SOUTHAMPTON have confirmed that manager Ruben Selles will leave the club next week as they close in on a replacement.
The Spanish coach, 36, succeeded Nathan Jones after the Welshman was sacked in February after just one win from his eight matches in charge.
But he has been unable to stop the rot at St Mary’s with the club’s winless run since ensuring they have finished bottom of the Premier League.
Now, as they prepare for relegation and life in the Championship, the Saints have confirmed that Selles’ contract will not be renewed.
A statement read: “Southampton Football Club can confirm that it has held conversations with men’s first team manager, Ruben Selles, and decided that his contract will not be renewed when it expires at the end of the season.
“The club wants to place on record its thanks to Ruben for taking on the managerial position at a difficult time for the club and for giving his all as we attempted to stay in the Premier League.
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“Ruben will take charge of the team for the final game against Liverpool on Sunday at St Mary’s. We wish him all the best for his future career.”
We reported how Russell Martin will take over as Southampton boss this summer.
The Swansea gaffer has verbally agreed terms with the relegated Saints, who are overhauling things on and off the pitch following a dismal season.
Southampton are now negotiating compensation with the Championship outfit and the fee is set to be well under £1million.
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Martin, 37, who has led Swansea to 15th and tenth-placed finishes on a limited budget in his two seasons in Wales, is expected to bring his backroom staff with him.
Former Norwich defender Martin is not the only change on the south coast, with owners Sport Republic announcing a board reshuffle.
Chief executive officer Martin Semmens has left after falling out with Sport Republic and the director of football Rasmus Ankersen.
Jason Wilcox is set to arrive from champions Manchester City as technical director and has already had a hand in Martin’s appointment.
Saints also announced that Andy Young, previously chief financial officer of City Football Group, will join as an independent director.
And Darren Mowbray, the brother of Sunderland boss Tony, is their new head of recruitment.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
