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Southampton close to appointing their new manager

Southampton
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The relegated Saints have been without a permanent head coach since firing Nathan Jones in February.

Russell Martin is on the verge of becoming the new manager of Southampton on a three-year contract.

The former Scotland international is expected to finalize the move shortly, according to The Guardian. He will join Southampton from Swansea as the relegated Premier League club prepares for life in the Championship. The Saints will pay Swansea around £400,000 in compensation.

Under Martin’s guidance, Swansea finished 10th in the Championship this term despite having the youngest squad in the division and one of the lowest budgets. His approach to the game has been praised. Southampton are hoping that the 37-year-old can help the team return to the Premier League in the first attempt.

The Saints will finish last in the Premier League after a disastrous season that saw them use three managers. Nathan Jones replaced Ralph Hasenhuttl in November, although he only lasted 14 games before his dismissal. Ruben Selles took charge for the final months of the campaign but was unable to save the team from relegation.

On Monday, Martin Semmens, the chief executive, resigned from his position following the club’s relegation. Selles, who has stayed in charge since Jones’ sacking, will also leave St. Mary’s at the end of the season after talks with the club.

Southampton will play Liverpool at home this Sunday for their final game of the 2022/23 campaign.

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