Southampton have put their search for a new manager on hold by confirming that John Gorman and Jason Dodd, the caretaker managers, will remain in charge for the “foreseeable future”.
The club’s board have spoken to a number of candidates to succeed George Burley, who took up the role of Scotland coach last mont but this week’s announcement that the Coca-Cola Championship club are in preliminary discussions with potential investors, coupled with the team’s performances in the last three games, means Gorman and Dodd are to stay in charge - possibly until the end of the season.
“Saints have asked John Gorman and Jason Dodd to remain in charge of the team for the foreseeable future,” A statement on the club’s official website said. “Contrary to media speculation, the club will not be naming a successor to George Burley in the next week.
“Saints have stressed all along that they will not rush the appointment and the pair have earned the right to continue in their caretaker roles by making a huge impact during their three-game tenure.”
Gorman, the former Wycombe Wanderers and Swindon Town manager, was working as Southampton’s chief scout when Burley headed north of the border, while ex-Saints defender Dodd was the club’s first-team coach.
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Their first game in charge was a 2-0 FA Cup win over Bury, followed by a 1-0 home defeat by Norwich City and a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace last weekend.
“We have seen plenty of people and it has been a very difficult decision and one which the board have not taken lightly,” Leon Crouch, the Southampton chairman said. “We always said we would take our time to make sure we appoint the right person and that is what we are doing. There is no rush because we are very happy with what Jason and John are doing.
“In the meantime we will continue our hunt for new investment.”