Southampton have appointed Mark Hughes as their new first-team manager after the dismissal of Mauricio Pellegrino on Monday.
During the Argentinian’s reign, Saints won just five times in the Premier League and currently sit one point and one place above the relegation zone.
Hughes himself was sacked by Stoke earlier on in the season, having slumped into a relegation fight with the Potters. But, after taking over at the Bet365 Stadium back in 2013, Hughes led Stoke to three consecutive 9th place finishes in the top flight, followed by 13th place last season.
Previously, the Welshman has had spells at Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham and QPR.
With Saints having been heavily linked with the likes of Marco Silva in the past, Mark Hughes’ appointment may not seem as fashionable or attractive as some might want.
Nevertheless, here are some reasons why I think Hughes, who is also fondly known as “Sparky”, will keep us up!
Discipline
Mark Hughes is known to be a leader. He will get the players on his side, playing how he wants to play, which could have the desired effect come the end of the season.
He will demand 100% from every player, which is very much needed based on our latest form, especially given how we played against Newcastle.
So if we do end up going down, then it won’t be without a fight.
Direct approach to matches
He has a direct style of play, which could massively benefit our squad.
Pellegrino set us up very negatively and focused on keeping the ball and being overly patient, whereas Hughes is the opposite.
We can expect to see much more direct football, which can hopefully lead to more chances being created and more goals being scored.
Experience
Hughes has vast Premier League experience, having managed five other clubs at this level.
Only four other bosses have managed more Premier League games than the Welshman, which really speaks for itself in terms of experience.
Point to prove
Having been sacked by Stoke back in January after the Potters’ humiliating FA Cup defeat to Coventry, Hughes will feel he has a point to prove.
He will give his all to try and keep us up and ensure that his reputation does not face any further damage.