Mark Hughes has spoken of the importance of whoever Saints appoint for next season of doing it quickly.
It is true to say that most Saints fans at this stage would not be against Mark Hughes being appointed on a permanent deal, this season has been a reality check for the Saints board after two appointments of European style coaches having varying results, Hughes was a departure from that model and the club whilst clearly impressed with the work Hughes has done know that it will need a slight tinkering of their recent blueprint to do that.
Hughes himself has spoken of the need for whatever decision is taken for it to be done quickly.
Hughes arrived on a deal only to the end of the season and he insisted it would be wrong to discuss new terms with Saints until after Sunday’s final game with Manchester City.
Asked if he would welcome Southampton moving quickly to secure a new long-term boss, Hughes replied:
"I think it’s important for the club that they do that."
"Clearly there’s work to be done immediately after the season, decisions have to be made in terms of recruitment and retention of the players."
"So it would make sense to make a quick appointment, but I can’t shape that or dictate that, that’s a decision for the club."
"It would be wrong to raise the question (of a new deal) before the end of the season."
"And the club has approached that situation in exactly the right manner. You may have an inkling the club would like to do something but those discussions have had to be put on hold.”
Asked if he would like to stay on beyond the end of the campaign, Hughes replied:
"It’s a very good club, especially with what’s in place here to allow players to move forward and have success.
"So yes, It’s a well-run club, good club, and a good opportunity for whoever gets it.”