Southampton have spoken to Chris Wilder but a deal for the former Sheffield United boss isn’t expected to happen.
That’s according to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, who reports that Wilder has indeed been spoken to after Nathan Jones’ exit.
Jones was sacked on Sunday, less than 24 hours after a terrible 2-1 home defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Leading 1-0 against 10 men, Southampton capitulated and ended up losing to a rival at the wrong end of the table.
That was the end for Jones and Southampton are once again looking for a new manager having only landed Jones in November.
Wilder is allegedly one manager Southampton have sounded out but a deal is thought to be unlikely.
Jesse Marsch remains a big favourite after leaving Leeds United and interest in Wilder seemingly won’t go any further.
Chris Wilder would be a gamble for Southampton
It’s not all that long ago that Wilder was earning praise from all corners.
Wilder guided Sheffield United from League One to the Premier League, taking his boyhood club on an incredible journey.
Emile Heskey hailed Wilder as ‘phenomenal’ and Pep Guardiola declared his admiration for the then-Blades boss.
After a superb first season in the Premier League, results dried up and Wilder ended up being sacked in March 2021.
Wilder did return to management with Middlesbrough in November 2021, but lasted less than a year in the job after 18 wins and 16 defeats in 45 games in charge.
Wilder just couldn’t get Boro going and it’s a surprise to see him linked with a Premier League job now.
The Saints need an instant impact and Wilder’s last couple of years in management haven’t exactly inspired fans.
Wilder may well impress in his next job but walking into the St Mary’s Stadium dugout would be a risk for the struggling Saints.
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