Southampton fans here in the Tavern are dreading a drop down to the Championship, as the Saints head into one of the most crucial periods in their Premier League history. 

Mauricio Pellegrino has been at the forefront of all the problems that Southampton have encountered so far this season, as the Saints currently find themselves only one point above the relegation zone. Indeed, if Southampton are to have a future in the Premier League for years to come then their next few games could prove vital, as fellow relegation rivals Newcastle United and West Ham United are up next with the Saints’ clash against Swansea City set to be rearranged.

However, it does look to be an uphill task from here on in for the Saints, as even a minor slip up could prove costly given their fragile position. And, should they suffer relegation to the Championship after six enjoyable seasons in the top-flight, then the managerial position at St Mary’s would become vacant for their upcoming campaign with the inevitable sacking of Pellegrino.

Therefore, the Saints will be looking for a manager that can bring them promotion straight back to the Premier League, so here’s TWO potential candidates that could take charge if they suffer relegation…

Lee Johnson

Lee Johnson has established himself as one of the rising stars in the management scene, after beating Manchester United and giving Manchester City a run for their money in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.

Also, the 36-year-old has his current club Bristol City occupying the last play-off place in the Championship, having enjoyed one of his best seasons in charge of the Robins with promotion to the Premier League a possibility.

Indeed, Southampton’s chances of bringing the Englishman to St Mary’s would be huge if he doesn’t manage to get promoted with his current club, as the Saints can offer the exposure and success that Johnson’s managerial skills warrant. And, bringing the Bristol City boss down to the south coast could see them achieve promotion straight back to the top-flight, with it being likely that he’ll have a slightly better squad at his disposal.

Chris Wilder

Chris Wilder is one of the most impressive managers in the whole of the Football League, after earning his move from Northampton Town to Sheffield United back in 2016. And, it’s fair to say that he’s shocked the whole of English football in the Blades’ current campaign, after looking like automatic promotion contenders in the Championship at the start of the season.

However, Sheffield United seem to have dropped off the pace in recent times as even a playoff spot looks unlikely, but this can be put mainly down to the lack of Championship quality in the squad and minimal funds he has at his disposal.

Therefore, with money to spend should he take a possible job at St Mary’s if they end up getting relegated, this could see Wilder put his managerial skills to the test in order to earn a well deserved promotion to the Premier League.