Puel summer in store for Claude

CLAUDE PUEL believes that Southampton’s target next season should be to secure European football – even though he appeared unsure if he will still be in charge of the club.

The Frenchman’s future is the subject of intense speculation amid reports he will be told to leave after completing just one year of the three-season contract he signed last summer.

Former Monaco midfielder Puel is said to be at odds with his playing staff while the club’s supporters have also grown frustrated with his negative tactics.

He was subjected to boos by some sections of the home support during Southampton’s goalless draw against Manchester United at St Mary’s on Wednesday.

Southampton, who will finish eighth if they beat Stoke today, failed to progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League.

But Puel believes the Saints should be looking to get back into Europe despite admitting the problems that come with playing two matches inside a week.

“Before the game against Manchester United I spoke with Jose Mourinho,” said Puel. “It was very hard for them to play every three days in every competition.

“We learned a lot and it was very interesting and it will be, I think, the objective for next season.”

Whether Puel will still be at Southampton to achieve his objective remains to be seen.

Indeed his future will lead the agenda when the club conduct their end-of-season review next week.

This was confirmed by Southampton chairman Ralph Krueger and will be led by executive director Les Reed.

Asked if he was confident he would still be in charge next term, Puel said: “I don’t answer that question because it is not my worry at the minute.

“My worry is just to work and my job. Other things, speculation, I don’t say anything. I have no time to lose about this.”

MICHAEL DEAN