Southampton have decided to keep Ruben Selles as their manager until the end of the season, according to Fabrizio Romano.
There has been a lot of talk about who the Saints’ next manager will be after they sacked Nathan Jones. Jesse Marsch was close to taking the job, but negotiations broke down at the 11th hour.
It now appears caretaker manager Selles will be handed the job until the end of the season. The Spaniard has staked his claim to be the club’s next manager in his post as interim boss.
Selles notably led Southampton to a brilliant 1-0 win against Chelsea in the Premier League last weekend. According to Romano, he has done enough to convince the hierarchy that he is the man to lead the team forward.
"“Understand Southampton have decided to give Ruben Selles the chance to be the manager until the end of the current season. He will be the head coach to replace Neil [Nathan; ed.] Jones”, Romano wrote on Twitter:“Ruben Selles has convinced the club with his ideas and work, he’s set to stay.”"
Southampton face Leeds United this weekend
Selles will be determined to build on the momentum when Southampton return to action next. The Saints are scheduled to face fellow relegation-battlers Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday, February 25.
It remains to be seen if the Hampshire-based club will confirm Selles’ appointment as their manager before the trip to Yorkshire. The Spaniard will nevertheless be focused on leading the team to another win.
The St. Mary’s outfit currently sit bottom of the Premier League table with 18 points from 23 matches. A win against Leeds on Saturday could possibly see them get out of the drop zone.
Steering Southampton clear of the relegation zone will be a huge testament to Selles’ abilities as a manager. It is safe to say that he already has the players and fans’ backing.