West end Saints

I do not care whether a new manager has championship experience, I don't think it has any impact on how they will do. For the last 9 years the only winning manager who had managed in the championship before was Farke - and the first of the three times he won it was with no championship experience. It is just not a factor. Only two others had managed in England. I think either Still or Rohl are very good options, for the level we are. We are in a better place than last time we were relegated as we have a championship squad already this time! I don't think an extra championship season prepares you better for premier league - it is investing when you get there. The biggest thing for me is getting a manager sorted before we start deciding who leaves / comes in

By "never learn" do you mean only pick a manager you personally approve of? Despite not knowing who would even be interested, what any of them are like to work with etc? I have my doubts but as already been proven most managers who win this league have never managed here before. We aren't going to poach someone who is currently a proven success in a top league. He looks a risk, but so is any manager.

Options are 1) manager on the way up 2) on the way down 3) at this level already so why come here I would prefer on the way up. The average life expectancy for a championship manager is about 1 year - so most don't gather experience. I think there would be a tiny advantage of knowing the league. Last few Winners of championship Benitez - not managed ch Nuno Espírito Santo not managed ch, first in England Farke - not managed ch, first in England Bielsa - not managedch, first job in England Faarke - Parker - been there 3 years Kompany - not managed ch Kieran McKenna - not managed ch Farke So only evidence recently that it helps are Parker and Farke who are at that level. And Farke did it in his first season. So I don't think it helps at all!

Still resigned to return to england

I've been a little disappointed in him, been decent but hoped for more

Possibly. Point I was trying to make is how hard it is to judge a manager before you find out the fit with this club. As well as those, I can remember feeling uninspired by WGS being appointed after his relegation then being sacked from the division below us. It's an emotional subjective feeling, as long as it's not someone totally wrong (Jones) I would rather someone, with decent experience than someone who may have better track record but you know what you are getting (Fat Sam, Dyche). Not saying it's right, just what will make me more excited, optimistic for going to first game of the season. I don't think Rohl is linked just because he was here - his CV as a number 2 is very good, he has now shown he is happy to take the lead and we look at the right level for each other. I think he looks a good fit. Spors knows him and likes him and that working relationship is vital. Still - clearly looks impressive but maybe too much of gamble at this stage. I would say more likely to fail than Cooper but a bit more of a chance that he is the real deal and we have great season - which is why he excites me more. Would be satisfied rather than excited for Cooper - but isn't this all about hope and excitement before the inevitable disappointment?

If you look at the experience the following had, when they were appointed into their last job Fabian Hürzeler, Enzo Maresca (when appointed to Leicester), Vítor Pereira, Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner, then likes of Rohl and Still don't look lacking. Both of those would be of a level of giving me optimism and hope rather than total confidence. Probably similar to Martin, which worked last time, but more than Juric or Jones. I would be ok with either. Not without Thier risks but quite exciting. Cooper is more a steady should be ok, won't be a disaster but takes away that little bit of hope of doing great I would have with the other two. If there were options of being exciting and proven I would be happy....

Just playing around with chatgpt and thought would ask who we should have, to get us promoted with preference to high energy football.... Based on your criteria — successful promotion campaign, attacking high-energy football — here's how the four candidates stack up: --- 1. Steve Cooper — Best Fit Pros: Promotion experience: Took Nottingham Forest from the bottom of the Championship to the Premier League in 2022. Championship savvy: Knows how to build momentum over a long campaign. Flexible but intense: Teams play with good structure and energy; can adapt between possession and pressing styles. Cons: Not known for ultra-attacking football; more pragmatic when needed. Premier League tenure with Forest turned more conservative. Verdict: Most proven at getting promotion quickly — your safest and strongest bet for the goal. --- 2. Danny Röhl — Rising Star Pros: High-energy football: Transformed Sheffield Wednesday with an aggressive pressing style. Tactical pedigree: Coached under Hasenhüttl, Nagelsmann, Flick — elite footballing minds. Modern coach: Brings intensity, tactical structure, and ambition. Cons: No experience gaining promotion (yet). Very new to head coaching — still proving consistency across a season. Verdict: High-upside gamble — could bring both promotion and exciting football, but riskier than Cooper. --- 3. Will Still — Potential but Unproven Pros: Young, modern coach who favors attacking football. Strong communicator with players; brought success to Reims (France). Cons: No Championship experience. No track record of promotion or managing in England. Verdict: Exciting idea, but a real risk given lack of experience with English football or promotion races. --- 4. Frank Lampard — High Profile, Low Reward Pros: Knows English football well. Promoted Derby to the play-offs with an attacking style. Cons: Poor recent record: struggles at Chelsea, Everton. Questionable tactical identity and adaptability. No promotion success despite big resources at Derby. Verdict: Big name but least suited based on recent record and inconsistency. --- Final Ranking (Best to Worst Fit for Your Goals): 1. Steve Cooper – proven, safe choice with promotion on his CV. 2. Danny Röhl – high-upside, exciting gamble. 3. Will Still – potential for future, but premature for this role. 4. Frank Lampard – not aligned with success or style objectives. Personally my feeling is that Danny Rohl would be the best fit and connect with the fans best

Given Southampton's recent relegation and the pressing need to rebuild for an immediate return to the Premier League, the club's managerial appointment is critical. Working under Sporting Director Johannes Spors, who emphasizes a cohesive footballing philosophy and strategic player recruitment, the next manager must align with this vision. Top Managerial Candidates 1. Danny Röhl (Sheffield Wednesday) Profile: At 35, Röhl has garnered attention for his transformative work at Sheffield Wednesday, steering them from relegation threats to playoff contenders. His prior experience includes assistant roles at Southampton and Bayern Munich, showcasing his tactical acumen and familiarity with the club's environment. Alignment with Spors: Röhl's emphasis on structured, high-pressing football dovetails with Spors' vision, making him a strong fit for a collaborative rebuild. Considerations: Securing Röhl would require negotiating a compensation package due to his existing contract with Sheffield Wednesday. 2. Carlos Corberán (West Bromwich Albion) Profile: Corberán has demonstrated his capability by revitalizing teams like Huddersfield Town and West Brom, instilling a possession-based, high-energy playing style. Alignment with Spors: His tactical approach and experience in the Championship align well with Spors' strategic objectives. Considerations: While Corberán has expressed interest in the Southampton role, his commitment to West Brom and potential compensation requirements are factors to consider. 3. Will Still (RC Lens) Profile: At just 32, Still has made significant strides with RC Lens in Ligue 1, achieving commendable results despite budgetary constraints. Alignment with Spors: His adaptability and success in developing talent resonate with Spors' emphasis on youth and sustainable growth. Considerations: Transitioning from Ligue 1 to the Championship presents challenges, and his lack of experience in English football could be a hurdle. 4. Kasper Hjulmand (Former Denmark National Team Coach) Profile: Hjulmand led Denmark to the Euro 2020 semi-finals and has a reputation for disciplined, tactical football. Alignment with Spors: His strategic mindset and experience in international football could bring a fresh perspective to Southampton's rebuild. Considerations: His limited experience in English club football and a brief, less successful stint at Mainz may raise concerns. 5. Liam Rosenior (RC Strasbourg) Profile: Rosenior has impressed at Strasbourg, a club under Chelsea's ownership, showcasing his ability to manage within a broader footballing network. Alignment with Spors: His progressive approach and experience in multi-club structures align with Spors' operational model. Considerations: Potential complications due to Strasbourg's ownership and the perception of moving to a lower-tier club may affect negotiations. Recommendation Considering the need for a manager who can immediately impact performance, understands the Championship landscape, and aligns with Johannes Spors' strategic vision, Danny Röhl emerges as the most suitable candidate. His previous association with Southampton, combined with his recent successes and tactical philosophy, make him well-equipped to lead the club's resurgence. Should negotiations with Röhl prove challenging, Carlos Corberán stands as a strong alternative, bringing valuable Championship experience and a compatible footballing approach. AI - simple

When you look at the team that got us to play offs last time (Bazunu, KWP, THB, Bednarek, Manning, Stu, Downes, Smallbone, Fraser, Adams, AA) or even to win play offs (add Aribo, McCarthy, Brooks, Stephens). How many will be available next season? How many are likely to be improved upon? I think Shea Charles will be very good for us, plus new younger players coming through, so even if KWP, Ramsdale, Sibling, Fernandes go, I would be very surprised if we aren't stronger than last time. Downes, Charles, Smallbone will be as good as any teams midfield - (Smallbone was probably one of the best players from any team during play offs). Defence / keeper will easily match last time - except KWP. I think we are a centre forward away from being a very good championship side - if managed right. But I do expect the odd surprise with who stays, and think we will sign quite a few. I would never say we will be comfortable for promotion but think we are very well placed, possibly the best of relegated sides

WGS is always my go to for never knowing how an appointment may go. Relegated with Coventry, then doing badly in Championship (was it called that then?) hated by fans... Back to title of thread.. Seems most popular choice is Rohl, who remains bookies favourite, with some interest here for Cooper and Still.

Have I missed anything? Unsubstantiated rumour mentioned in passing on talk sport subsequently denied by local press, local radio and indeed talk sport?

I have no idea in the truth but 1) if a journalist hears a rumour, looks into it, finds there is no basis to it, then no I would not expect them to report it. 2) if you are trying to sell something it is usual to seek interest in your sale, not deny it.

I think the league will be marginally weaker than when we got promoted. Our main 11, on appearance times, was Bazunu KWP Bednarek THB Manning Smallbone Downes Stu Armstrong Ryan F Che Adam A Manager Martin Surely with players who stay, half decent manager, a few good youngsters coming through and a couple of signings we will be stronger? I feel Shea Charles could be central for us.

Nathan Jones? Juric?? You could class Martin with your label but he was a Wilcox appointment Also we have a new decision maker who I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt and starts with a clean sheet

Think you are miles off with the Downes v JWP comparison. Downes is 26 and played most of his career outside of the top level, from wiki league 2 - 10, league 1 - 53, champ - 109, prem - 42. He hasn't made it into an England or England under 21 team. His first full season in prem he has looked out of his depth. By 26 JWP had Played 31 times for England under 21, including being capt and winning Toulon tournament. Played 11 times for England and scored two goals. Played best part of 300 times in prem league, scoring about 30 goals, generally seen as a consistent worker, I agree, but so much tidier and more composed and better in every way to Downes. A safe 7/10 prem player compared to a 4/10 prem player.

Your method may work is way down to same options. I'm not feeling bigger name / more proven managers are likely to come here

I get the different views on Martin but I liked him, and felt he was naive this season, played some decent football but wasn't good enough for this level. At the spurs game it was clear he had to go. Juric is worse. I'm sure we would still be bottom but I'm convinced Martin would have beaten the Derby points target. Juric won't. The players are not good enough. I would need convincing that any of our team would be a starter at any other team. Fernandes maybe, KWP possibly another bottom 6 side, Ramsdale. The others not close. There has been a lack of ability, effort and organisation. Juric has sucked any hope or enthusiasm out of the club. Pointless keeping him, no one would do worse. Any other coach at the club, Lallana, Stephens, I don't care but what is the point of Juric? If there was any doubt his treatment of Fernandes today was disgraceful. The only player who has looked interested, or had the ability or made an effort this season. Probably the only player every fan wants to stay. The only midfielder who has looked close to prem level this season. Taking him off at half time. Then after the game saying you didn't like how he played when the rest were shit. Currently put him level alongside Jones as someone I want to forget was ever anything to do with this club.

Sorry that's not right. Fernandes has had more starts and more minutes than all except KWP since he arrived. Immediately made his mark. He has been our best player since we signed him, and that's as a 20 year old new to the league. His effort and positivity have been amazing considering the results and the team around him, again as a new young player. The old favourites you mentioned had it easy compared to what he has dealt with! If he stays, and we prove the team around him, he would be an absolute star in the championship. But he will have other options.

I put on another thread, Juric questioned how could a well run club at this level, be reliant on its two best players being only 18 (Dibling although think turned 19) and 20 (Fernandes), neither ever played in the prem. I think we are particularly weak in CM We have Downes (played more in league 1 or 2 at age of 26) not close to prem level at all, very poor and poor attitude Ugochuckwu 20, inexperienced and a poor passer Compare that with Everton -Gueye , Mangala, Garner, Whu - JWP, Soucek, Rodriguez, Alvarez, Palquetta Wolves, Traore, Andre, Gomez Palace, Dacoure, Wharton, will Hughes, Even Leicester have Winks and Ndidi, plus Soumare who have prem experience Only players with experience are ones who were bad enough to get us relegated. Keep Fernandes other than that couldn't care about any of them Edit - just seen Man U are losing so should include them as a low prem side, think they have Ugarte, Erikson, Casimiro, Fernandes, Mainoo.

Juric made the point that how can a club have it's best players and 18 year old (assume Dibling who is now 19) and an 20 year old (assume Fernandes). He has made us worse than Martin and we play with no hope. But the players are awful

I don't want him next season. Get rid. Half decent championship / league 1 level player, nothing special, poor character. Easily improved upon

I heard on the radio (not read articles or watched video as not that interested!) that she wasn't investigated, a complaint was made and registered (as it would have to be) and she was informed and told police did not seem it needed investigation/ action. No idea if this is right and fits with other info

It is still very achievable to have a decent season next season IF we improve on recruitment ( manager and players). There are very few I would not want to go (I appreciate we cannot force players to leave or sell a whole squad). But of our current first team I would only miss Fernandes. Literally one player! Others could do a job in the championship but not that fussed. Dibling clearly has potential and although it would good to see him grow into a solid consistent performer, the figures quoted would finance a decent championship team. If Dibling, THB, Ramsdale, Downes, ABK, Paul O, Aribo, Sulemana all went, we would have a big budget to build a strong team. New additions, plus Sugawara, Wood, Edwards, Wellington (Manning) Charles, Fernandes, Edozie, Armstrong, Archer I don't know about likes of Matsuki, Juan, Fraser, Bree, Joachim Kayi Sandra Add a bit of athletism and experience and a decent manager (Rohl?) we would easily win more than we lose

Doubt any (many) of them would be genuine first 11 players at any other team at the moment. Dibling will be, but would be sub getting minutes for experience. Ramsdale's current performances wouldn't get him into many teams. KWP has now had two indifferent prem seasons, clearly has ability but wouldn't be regular starter based on this season for many teams. Sulemana wouldn't be regular starter anywhere else at the moment.