Mark Hughes sacked as Southampton manager

Mark Hughes has been sacked as manager of Southampton after just eight months in charge, the struggling Premier League club announced on Monday, despite an improved performance in a 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

The Welshman, 55, took over at St Mary's in March and guided them to Premier League survival as well as an FA Cup semi-final but was unable to inspire a better campaign this season.

Former RB Leipzig boss Ralph Hasenhuettl is reportedly the front-runner to replace Hughes -- the new boss will be Southampton's fourth permanent manager in 18 months.

"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 club said in a statement.

"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."
"But whether that happens or not will be up to the guys upstairs. I'm taking the team up until Wednesday and we'll see after that."