Southampton vice-chairman Les Reed sacked, club looks to “new direction”

Southampton have sacked vice-chairman Les Reed as the club looks to move in a “new direction” without him.

The decision comes as Southampton sit precariously above the Premier League relegation zone following a run of seven games without a win.

Manager Mark Hughes, an appointment made by Reed, is also under pressure due to the club’s poor form with newspapers reporting he could also be on his way out of the club if they fail to win against Watford on Saturday.

”His time at the club will be remembered for the fine work he did in overseeing our progress through the divisions and establishing the club in the Premier League,” chairman Ralph Krueger said of Reed in a statement.

”The process of recruiting the right individual to head up our football operations is underway, and is a decision that needs to be given the necessary time and attention that reflects what an important position it is within our club.”

Reed was at Saints in various capacities over an eight-year period. After initial, unexpected success with him at the helm, the club has found its standards slipping over recent years.