Southampton fans say ‘Prem is in trouble’ as Ruben Selles is named manager until end of season after win over Chelsea
SOUTHAMPTON have named Ruben Selles as their successor to sacked ex-boss Nathan Jones.
The Spaniard, 39, has penned a deal until the end of the season at St Mary’s.
Selles arrived at Southampton last summer, initially as assistant to former boss Ralph Hasenhuttl.
However, he found himself marginalised following Jones’ appointment.
Following the Welshman’s dismissal after a disastrous spell in charge, Selles took interim charge.
He made an instant impact, masterminding last weekend’s stunning 1-0 win at Chelsea.
Following Selles’ appointment until the end of the season, excited Southampton fans began to feel more optimism.
One wrote: “The Prem is in trouble.”
A second tweeted: “Best news I’ve heard all week.”
Another added: “Seeing how happy and together the team looked the other night, I’m happy for this one.”
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A fourth cried: “WE’VE GOT SUPER RUBEN SELLES.”
The Saints had been in talks with former Leeds boss Jesse Marsch regarding their vacant position.
But talks subsequently broke down, with Selles then admitting that he’d like the job full-time.
He said: “I want to be the manager. And as you asked me three or four months ago, I think I’m capable of doing that just as any other manager.
“But that is not my decision and that is okay for me. I just put everything I can and we are working really hard.
“Those are my skills and those in the club will make a decision, but of course, I will be more than happy to get the job.”
Selles was never a professional as a player.
He studied sports and physiology in his hometown Valencia, before obtaining his Uefa Pro License aged just 25.
The budding gaffer then took on roles as fitness coach of Greek side Aris and Villarreal as he embarked on an eclectic career to date.
Selles has worked in Azerbaijan, Russia, Norway and Denmark in a variety of different positions.
He worked as manager of hometown Valencia’s Under-18s, before joining Southampton.