Southampton have confirmed Frenchman Claude Puel as their new manager on a three-year contract.

The 54-year-old former Monaco and Nice boss replaces Ronald Koeman, who left for Everton earlier this summer.

Former Aston Villa coach Eric Black has been named as Puel’s assistant.

Pascal Plancque has also joined Puel’s backroom staff, while Southampton have agreed a deal to retain Dave Watson among the coaching set-up.

Sammy Lee has left the top-flight club, however, as the Saints gear up for life after Koeman.

“Claude clearly came out on top of a very impressive shortlist,” said Southampton’s executive director of football Les Reed.

“We have not only got the best man, but the right coaching team to support him.

“In order to ensure we appointed a manager who would meet our needs as a club, feedback from the dressing room, as well as taking account of our culture, vision and values was critical in drawing up our criteria for the appointment.”

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