SOUTHAMPTON boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has been relieved of his duties as first team manager, the club announced this morning. 

The decision came less than 24 hours after the Austrian watched his side get comfortably beaten 4-1 by Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon.

The loss leaves Saints in the relegation zone with one Premier League match left to play ahead of the World Cup break.

Saints have won just three of their opening 14 Premier League matches and that follows a run of one win in 12 to end last season. 

The only win in their last nine fixtures came against Cherries at Vitality Stadium last month.

Hasenhuttl was in charge at St Mary’s for nearly four years but the failure to build on last season’s impressive winter run and struggles to start the new campaign saw pressure steadily rise on the 55 year old’s shoulders.

A statement from the club on Monday morning read: "Hasenhüttl, who was appointed in December 2018, departs having made a significant contribution to the club, overseeing some memorable results and also playing a key role in the development of our club infrastructure, identity and playing squad.

"However, we now believe it is an appropriate time to make a change."

Hasenhuttl’s tenure on the south coast has been marked by notable victories including the 3-2 win at Spurs last season but heavy defeats - including the two 9-0s - will also be remembered.

The club statement also confirmed that first team assistant coach Richard Kitzbichler has departed the club with Hasenhuttl.

First team lead coach Rubén Sellés will lead Saints on Wednesday night for their EFL Cup clash against Sheffield Wednesday with the club stating that they will be "announcing a permanent replacement in due course".