Southampton sack Claude Puel after less than a year in charge at St Mary's
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Southampton have parted company with manager Claude Puel.
The Frenchman's departure comes after Saints finished in eighth place in the Premier League last season and means he was in charge for less than a year.
The club reached the EFL Cup final, but it was his his negative tactics disillusioned the St Mary's faithful, with the players booed off after the final day defeat to Stoke.
The 55-year-old replaced Ronald Koeman in the south coast hot seat, but was unable to match the Dutchman's sixth-place finish from 2015-16, suffering 16 league defeats.
(Photo: PA)
Puel previously spent four years in charge at Nice, before landing the Saints job in June 2016.
The club confirmed the news in a statement on their website which reads:
"Southampton Football Club can today confirm that it has terminated the contract of Claude Puel with immediate effect.
"Everyone at Southampton would like to express our thanks to Claude for his hard work and commitment this year. The highlight of the season was a memorable day at Wembley in the EFL Cup Final, a day our fans will always treasure.
(Photo: REUTERS)
"We wish Claude well for the future.
"The search for a new management team is underway. We are confident that we will find the right fit in line with the long term vision of the club."