Southampton are thought to be looking at appointing Tony Mowbray as their new manager on a short-term deal after a twist emerged on a return for Russell Martin.

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The Saints are on the search for another permanent manager after what has been a torrid 12 months at St Mary’s. Will Still is the latest full-time boss to have tried and failed on the south coast, with Southampton winning just two of their opening 13 Championship games.

A number of managers have been linked with the Saints vacancy, including former manager Russell Martin, who was thought to be the top target and was open to talks.

Other names mooted to be of interest include former Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick, ex-Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and Stoke City’s Mark Robins.

Taking to X on Tuesday, Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas revealed that Johannes Spors’ search for a new Southampton manager has seen him look in Germany, with returns for Ralph Hasenhuttl or Russell Martin unlikely.

With the Saints taking their time, it has even been claimed that a new interim manager could be appointed.

Southampton eye Mowbray on short-term deal

According to reliable reporter Alan Nixon, relayed by Football League World, Southampton are looking at a move for Mowbray on a short-term basis.

It is claimed that Mowbray could be brought in if things don’t improve under interim head coach Tonda Eckert. Within the report, it is also stated that there is some opposition within Southampton to a Martin return, backing up Thomas’ claim of a move for the ex-Saints looking unlikely.

Mowbray, a Championship winner during his time at West Brom and plays a 4-2-3-1 system, has been out of work since April after a brief second stint at The Hawthorns.

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The 61-year-old, when in charge of Sunderland, embarrassed Martin’s Southampton side, winning 5-0 at the Stadium of Light in 2023.

Games

498

Wins

195

Draws

130

Losses

173

Points

715

Points per game

1.44

Mowbray has plenty of experience in the second tier, so could therefore be a safe pair of hands if Southampton’s manager search is going to continue into and even after the international break.

Approaching 500 games as a manager in the second tier, Mowbray’s name could be one to keep an eye on at St Mary’s.

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