Southampton hold talks with Jesse Marsch to fill managerial vacancy

In the wake of Nathan Jones' sacking, Leeds have now identified Jesse Marsch as a potential successor. Jones was sacked after a run of seven defeats in eight league games, with his fate compounded by a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to ten-man Wolves.

According to The Athletic, Southampton admire his pressing style which is similar to former Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl and are believed to have sounded him out about the vacant position.

Marsch has not left England since being fired by Leeds last week and should an agreement be reached, will be available to start work immediately.

He succeeded in keeping Leeds in the top flight last season after taking over from Marcelo Bielsa, but was sacked last week after seven games without a win, leaving the club in 17th position. 

Leeds struggled with inconsistency and too often in games, conceded soft goals. There were some important wins during his tenure, most especially a victory over Liverpool at Anfield but his position at the helm became untenable.

The threat of relegation is real for Southampton who sit at the foot of the Premier League table after a dismal run of results. The immediate goal for the Saints will be finding points as quickly as possible or a fall into the Championship beckons.

First-team coach, Ruben Selles, will take interim charge until an appointment is made. He will be in the dugout for the game against Chelsea at the weekend.