IN QUOTES: Mauricio Pellegrino’s Southampton appointment

Yesterday Southampton filled their managerial vacancy through the addition of Mauricio Pellegrino, who signed a three-year deal on the south coast.

Following Claude Puel’s sacking a few weeks ago, speculation was rife has to who would take over at Southampton, with the man eventually named being the bookies’ favourite for some time.

Former Alaves manager Mauricio Pellegrino will be the man guiding the Saints into next season with both manager and club clearly agreeing on the long-term future of the side. On his appointment, Pellegrino told the official Southampton site:

“I think my philosophy and the culture of the club work well together. I want to make the supporters proud of the players and to feel part of the game every week.”

The 45-year-old has held four managerial positions across his five years in the coaching game, having progressed from being Rafa Benitez’s right-hand man.

His experience includes two clubs in his native Argentina as well as a short spell at Valencia in Spain, with mixed success. Despite this he is seemingly a confident and ambitious man, as he went on to say.

He said: “I want to win games and develop a team spirit where everyone give 100 percent and supports each other. I’m excited and passionate for what the future holds.

Les Reed has also gone on record to praise the newly-appointed Argentine, insisting that his fit for the role goes beyond his ability as a coach.

He said: “Mauricio impressed us with his knowledge, motivation and ability. His style of play and aspiration matches the philosophy, culture and ambition of the club.”

Pellegrino’s first competitive game in charge will be a home fixture against Swansea City, before also playing host to West Ham United a week later.