Pearson new Soton coach

Southampton have named former Newcastle coach Nigel Pearson as their new boss. Pearson was released at Newcastle when Kevin Keegan joined the club.

Southampton chairman Leon Crouch said: "We are very grateful to John and Jason for all their hard work and their passion after taking over in very difficult circumstances.

"It was clear that the uncertainty of the management situation was having a detrimental effect on the players and so we have decided to bring in a new man.

"Pearson is a top quality coach with plenty of experience and good contacts in the game.

"He is also a disciplinarian with a strong work ethic and I believe he will inject new impetus into our campaign."