Southampton sack manager Mark Hughes, search for new coach underway

Southampton have sacked manager Mark Hughes along with his backroom staff Mark Bowen and Eddie Niedzwiecki.

The coach, who joined the club in March earlier this year, was dismissed after arriving at Saints’ training ground this morning.

Southampton state the club is already looking for his replacement.

The club’s official statement says former Saints goalkeeper and current first-team coach Kelvin Davis will take training and will be in charge for Wednesday’s away game at Tottenham Hotspur.

Hughes helped Saints avoid relegation last season after taking over from Mauricio Pellegrino on a short-term basis, with his side winning season-defining games against AFC Bournemouth and Swansea City.

He was then hired on a permanent basis this summer, but Saints have mustered just three wins in 22 games under Hughes’ leadership.

Southampton are currently sat in the relegation zone, despite a 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Saturday.

Southampton’s full statement below:

Southampton Football Club can today confirm it has parted company with First Team Manager Mark Hughes.

Assistant First Team Manager Mark Bowen and Assistant First Team Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki have also left the club.

We would like to express our thanks to Mark and his staff for all of their efforts during their time at St Mary’s.

The search for a new manager to take the club forward is already under way.

First Team Assistant Coach Kelvin Davis will lead the team for Wednesday’s Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley.