As speculation continues to mount regarding Tonda Eckert's potential lengthy ban, we take a look at three names that could be in the frame to replace him should the FA heavily sanction him.
The Championship club remain in limbo some four months on from the spygate scandal with the FA having only this week undertaken an official hearing with regards to what action they wish to take.
Eckert has received the public backing from Saints chairman Dragan Solak following the misdemeanours that cost the club a spot in last season's play-off final, but he could well be forced into making a change should the German head coach be handed a suspension.
Whilst the FA have confirmed they will announce their verdict by the end of the current international break, it's expected that a decision will come in the coming days, with both Southampton and the rest of the EFL clamouring for a swift resolution.
Ahead of then, we take a look at a trio of names who could be lined-up to take over the reins either on a temporary or permanent basis.
Next Southampton Manager Contenders
Rob Edwards
There is already mounting speculation that Saints chiefs have already made an official approach to the former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss as they draw up their contingency plans.
The 43-year-old was surprisingly sacked ahead of the new campaign, just months into his tenure at Molineux, but has a plethora of admirers in the Championship, including at Southampton.
Edwards has received plenty of plaudits for the work he carried out in leading Luton Town to the Premier League, whilst he played a key role in turning Middlesbrough into a legitimate second-tier force before joining Wolves last year.
Adam Lallana
Adam Lallana is no stranger to the first-team fold at St. Mary's having enjoyed a stellar career at the club during his playing days.
The former England international is highly-regarded by the Saints owners and has already shown his capabilities in a coaching role with the club's under 21 side, whilst developing a close working relationship with Eckert.
With the German having worked his way through the academy ranks into the first-team role in Hampshire, there is a strong feeling that Lallana could follow-suit and help steer the club through potentially tricky waters on an interim basis should Eckert be temporarily removed from his role.
Scott Parker
Scott Parker's name is likely to have popped up in conversation when the club have been deliberating a potential next cause of action should they receive the news they are fearing from the FA.
The 45-year-old is a serial promotion winner in the Championship, having led Fulham, Bournemouth and most recently Burnley to the Premier League.
His availability after being relinquished of his role at Turf Moor this summer would likely make any deal easier to seal, although it remains to be seen as to whether the former Chelsea and England man would be open to an interim role given his second-tier managerial credentials.
