Will Still appointed Southampton manager

Southampton have confirmed the appointment of former Lens boss Will Still as their new manager, replacing Ivan Juric who was sacked following the club's relegation to the Championship.

Born in Belgium to English parents, Still began coaching at a young age and has built a reputation as one of Europe's brightest young coaching talents.

The 32-year-old has spent the last three years managing in Ligue 1 in France, with spells at Reims and Lens following brief stints in charge of clubs in the Belgian lower leagues.

He became the youngest manager in Europe's top five divisions when he took over at Reims aged just 30, before leading the French side on an impressive 14-game unbeaten run.

Will Still: Philosophy, formation and style of play

Still announced his departure from Lens in the summer and has now penned a 3-year contract at St Mary's, following the Saints relegation from the Premier League.

Speaking to the club's website following the announcement, Still expressed his pride at being handed the reins at Southampton:

I'm extremely proud and excited to have joined Southampton - there is huge potential here and we have a great opportunity to do something special.

Will Still - www.southamptonfc.com

The Saints were relegated with a whimper from the Premier League in April, finishing bottom of the table and narrowly avoiding setting the record for the lowest ever points total in a top flight season.

Despite their poor campaign, Southampton are certain to be installed as one of the favourites for promotion in the Championship next season, and Still will know he needs to hit the ground running in his first job in English football.

Darren Durber

• Southampton F.C.
• Premier League
• Championship
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