SAINTS SACK PELLEGRINO AFTER NINE MONTHS

MAURICIO PELLEGRINO has been sacked as Southampton manager following a disappointing spell, the club announced last night.

A meeting was called following the 3-0 defeat against Newcastle United and, after a sequence of only one Premier League win since November, the club have decided to make a change in an attempt to galvanise the squad.

Pellegrino was only appointed last summer following the sacking of Claude Puel, who himself lasted only one season despite leading the club into the top half of the Premier League and the League Cup final.

Results have, however, only got worse and Southampton are currently positioned precariously, only one point above the relegation zone under Pellegrino (pictured) . “Southampton Football Club can today confirm that it has parted company with First Team Manager Mauricio Pellegrino,” said a statement. “Assistant Manager Carlos Compagnucci and Assistant First Team Coach Xavier Tamarit have also parted company with the club.

“We would like to place on record our thanks to Mauricio, Carlos and Xavier for their efforts during their time with Southampton, and wish them well for the future.

“The club will look to appoint a new management team as soon as possible, with the search for a replacement already underway.”