Southampton Football Club has named Ruben Selles as their manager until the end of the current season, replacing Nathan Jones, who was fired earlier this month.
Jones had only been in charge for 95 days, having taken over from Ralph Hasenhuttl, who was dismissed in November. Selles’ appointment followed failed negotiations with former Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch.
The 39-year-old Spaniard was initially named interim manager and led the team to a victory against Chelsea. Selles expressed his desire to become the club’s permanent manager, which he backed up with his efforts in helping the struggling side earn only their second league win since October.
Selles has experience coaching in Greece, Azerbaijan, and Denmark and had been a first-team coach at Southampton under both Hasenhuttl and Jones. Jones’ departure came after eight defeats in nine Premier League games, with Southampton initially looking to Marsch to galvanize the squad in their bid to avoid relegation. However, after contract negotiations failed, Selles will now lead the team in their effort to secure an 11th consecutive season in the top flight.
Selles’ first game as permanent manager will be a crucial match against second-bottom Leeds United, as Southampton is currently three points away from safety, having won just five of their 23 games this season