Jesse Marsch has reportedly emerged as a potential managerial target for Southampton.
On Sunday morning, the Saints confirmed that they had parted company with Nathan Jones after just three months and 14 matches in charge.
The decision was the consequence of Southampton losing 2-1 to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday after leading 1-0 and having a player advantage heading into the closing 20 minutes.
A number of big names are being linked with the vacant role, including former boss Mauricio Pochettino and ex-Rangers and Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard.
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However, according to The Athletic, Marsch may emerge as the chosen candidate of the Southampton board.
The report suggests that Southampton's owners were admirers of Marsch before their arrival at St Mary's, with the 49-year-old having managed the likes of Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig.
Marsch's spell at the latter lasted just 21 matches, and he was removed from his position in the dugout at Elland Road courtesy of winning just 11 of his 37 games in charge.
The Yorkshire giants had gone seven matches without success in the top flight before they opted for a change of voice within the first-team squad.
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Should Marsch be given the opportunity to take over at Southampton, there is no guarantee that he will accept due to the timeframe and after managing a direct rival throughout this season.
Nevertheless, it would represent an unexpected opportunity for someone who may not come into contention for other Premier League roles in the future.
While Southampton face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in their next fixture, another quirk is the South Coast outfit being due to play Leeds at Elland Road on February 25.
Leeds currently hold a four-point advantage over Southampton in the Premier League table, the latter sitting bottom with just 15 points from 22 matches.
Darren Plant
