Southampton Sack Mauricio Pellegrino

Appointed Southampton manager last June, Mauricio Pellegrino returned to English football this time as a manager. However, it is fair to say that the former Liverpool defender struggled to find his feet as St Mary’s.

The Argentine’s final game in charge was a 3-0 loss to Newcastle at St James’ Park, in which Kenedy’s double ensured a vital three points for Rafa Benitez’s side.

Sorry Season For The Saints

Last season Southampton were playing European football. Now they are staring down the barrel of relegation from the top-flight.

It has been a torrid season for a once-promising side, as they are now in the midst a relegation scrap. This season has seemingly caught up with the club, as their fortunes on the pitch have disappeared.

Unlike previous seasons, goals have been somewhat few and far between for the Saints. They have only scored 29 goals this season, as they have essentially lacked any real attacking intent.

Pellegrino had just one win in his last 17 games for Southampton. Their first game without him will be a visit to the DW Stadium to take on in-form Leauge One side Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

Potential Replacement?

Former Hull City boss Marco Silva is a name that could be thrown around, as he is currently without a club following his departure from Watford earlier this season. He appears to be the bookies favourite.

More interestingly enough, Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has been linked with the vacant Saints job in recent years. Will the Cherries boss jump ship to their arch-rivals?

Now with eight games remaining this season, Southampton will be fighting to maintain their Premier League status. Also, they shall be hoping that whoever comes in to succeed Mauricio Pellegrino can help re-build for next season.