Southampton have parted ways with manager Will Still after just five months at the helm.
The 33-year-old took charge in May, joining from French Ligue 1 side Lens with hopes of guiding the Saints back to Premier League contention.
However, after winning only two of 13 Championship matches, his tenure has come to an early end.
Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Preston North End proved the final straw, leaving Southampton 21st in the table and prompting boos from frustrated supporters.
In an official statement, the club confirmed that Ruben Martinez, Clement Lemaitre, and Carl Martin have also departed.
Tonda Eckert, head coach of the men’s under-21 side, will step in as interim manager.
“Will is a great person who gave everything to improve performances and results,” said technical director Johannes Spors.
“Unfortunately, that process has taken longer than we hoped."
"By making a change now, we believe we can turn things around and climb the table."
"We thank Will, Ruben, Clement, and Carl for their efforts and wish them all the best.”
Still’s short spell produced two wins, six draws, and five defeats, following the club’s relegation from the Premier League last season.
His victories came on the opening day against Wrexham and at Sheffield United in late September.
Southampton also enjoyed brief success in the EFL Cup, defeating Northampton Town and Norwich City before a narrow 2-1 loss to Liverpool ended their run.
Still’s dismissal follows a five-game winless streak, comprising two draws and three defeats.
After the loss to Preston, he told BBC Radio Solent there was no quick solution to the club’s struggles.
“If there was an instant fix, I would’ve found it a month or two ago,” he said.
“There’s a big job to do here, and while some changes have been made, there’s still a lot of work ahead.”
Southampton will now look to regroup under interim boss Eckert as they aim to steady their season and move clear of the relegation zone.
