Southampton sack Adkins

Southampton have sacked Nigel Adkins and appointed Mauricio Pochettino as manager.

Adkins has been relieved of his duties with the club concerned about a lack of activity in the transfer market.

The Saints are 15th in the table following a good run of form that has seen them lose just twice in their last 11 games but that has not been enough to keep Adkins at St Mary’s.

“This decision has been made with the long-term ambitions of Southampton Football Club in mind. Whilst we acknowledge the contribution Nigel has made during the past two years, for the Club to progress and achieve our long-term targets a change was needed,” said Southampton executive chairman Nicola Cortese.

“Mauricio is a well-respected coach of substantial quality who has gained a reputation as an astute tactician and excellent man manager. I have every confidence that he will inspire our talented squad of players to perform at the highest possible level.

Pochettino, a former Argentina international who has previously managed Espanyol, has spoken of his delight at taking the job at St Mary’s.

“This is the kind of opportunity that any coach would relish. Southampton is a club with great heritage, and an even more exciting future,” he said.

“There is a clear vision to take the Club to a new era of sustained success in the Premier League, and beyond, which I’m delighted to be part of.”

More to follow…